Planet Pod's Podcast

In 2020 the government pledged to protect at least 30% of land and sea for nature by 2030 – the ‘30x30’ target. Two years on and they have made woeful progress. What can we, as citizens, do to challenge this inaction? We speak to Kate Jennings, Head of Site Conservation and Species Policy for the RSPB and Richard Benwell, CEO of Wildlife and Countryside Link; a coalition of over 60 environmental organisations and author of the report "Nature 2030 - Habitats".

It has been a tumultuous time for nature in the UK with many of the existing legal protections for species and habitats coming under threat. To kick off our new series we speak to Natalie Bennett, Green member of the House of Lords and former leader of the Green Party and Karla Hill, Associate Director at think tank E3G and former Director of Programmes at Client Earth about the relationship between climate and politics. Will the cost of living and energy crises push the agenda for nature protection right out of the frame? Will climate and nature be the defining issue in the next election? Amanda also talks to Planet Pod Executive Producer Jim Haywood for a new segment reflecting on the natural world and exploring innovations in science and technology that will help us restore the balance.

Award-winning writer Ben Macdonald joins us to discuss his new book Cornerstones, how these species can save our planet and the power of books to shape our lives. We are also joined by Rose Malleson, founder of a sustainability book club, who shares her recommendations for summer reading.