19. Cold Dirt, Permafrost, and the Greening of Antarctica with Dr. Joe Levy

Explore the secrets locked in Antarctica’s permafrost as we dive into soil formation, ecosystem changes, and climate impacts in the world’s coldest desert. Guest Dr. Joe Levy, a geomorphologist and planetary scientist, shares insights from years of fieldwork in Antarctica’s dry valleys and how studying “cold dirt” offers clues about Earth’s past and Mars’ potential. Discover how warming temperatures and permafrost thaw could transform this frozen landscape into a carbon sink—or trigger unforeseen consequences. Join us as we learn about ancient soils, microbial mats, and the surprising parallels between Antarctica and Mars in this fascinating episode of South Pole.

Episode Guest: Dr. Joe Levy

Learn more about Dr. Levy here

Browse Dr. Levy’s publications here

Follow Dr. Levy on X

Learn more about the Cold Dirt Lab here

Episode Transcript and more information on the Pine Forest Media Website

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Hosted, produced, written, and edited by Clark Marchese

Cover art and PFM logo by Laurel Wong.

Theme music by Nela Ruiz

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