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Mind, Brain and Planet

Mind, Brain and Planet

By: Paul Howard-Jones
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The investigations of neuroscientist and psychologist Prof Paul Howard-Jones as he explores how our minds and brains are responding to climate change and environmental issues.

© 2026 Mind, Brain and Planet
Biological Sciences Science Social Sciences
Episodes
  • S2 EP8: Water commons in the Draa Valley - how do you share a precious resource?
    Jun 11 2026

    The Draa valley in Southern Morocco is one of the driest places on Earth and getting drier. Paul talks to local residents and farmers about a system of sharing water that has been operating for over 500 years - a longstanding example of a successful "commons". In a world where access to scarce resources is leading to conflict, commons may offer insights about achieving more sustainable and equitable approaches to sharing our planet. Researcher Sabina Pedrazzini explains what psychological factors can contribute to the success of a commons.

    More info on mindbrainplanet.com

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    24 mins
  • S2 EP7: UK to Sahara by public transport - can a train take you further (mentally) than a plane?
    May 1 2026

    Paul explores how surface travel may effect the brain in different ways compared to flying. Could the sciences of mind and brain help reduce carbon emissions due to flying? Paul spends 3 days travelling from Bristol to the Sahara desert by public transport, and reports on how that feels compared with a 3 hour flight from his local airport. On a cycle tour around Marrakesh, we meet Yessir who explains what it's like to live in a country where droughts are becoming more common, and we find out why scary public information campaigns may not always change public behaviour.

    More info on mindbrainplanet.com

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    17 mins
  • S2 EP6: Is climate activism good for the activist?
    Apr 1 2026

    What's it like to be a climate activist and can it be good for you? Protest and civil disobedience have won many of the benefits and freedoms we enjoy today, but what about the activists themselves? Is it all about hardship, risk and stress, or can activists benefit too? Paul interviews research Robyn Gulliver (University of Queensland, Australia) about her research on the wellbeing of activists, and hears again from climate activist Rosie about her first-hand experience of getting involved, organised and arrested. Armed with Robyn's advice, Paul steps out with his local Extinction Rebellion group.

    More info on mindbrainplanet.com

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    20 mins
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