Above the Arctic Circle, much of the land is underlaid by permafrost. But climate change is causing it to thaw. This is not good news for the planet.
As the carbon rich ground warms, microbes start to feast… releasing greenhouse gases that will warm the Earth even more.
Another possible downside was envisioned by a science-fiction author. Could ancient pathogens–released from the permafrost’s icy grip–cause new pandemics? We investigate what happens when the far north defrosts.
Guests:
Jacquelyn Gill – Associate professor of paleoecology at the University of Maine.
Jim Shepard – Novelist and short story writer, and teacher of English at Williams College, and author of “Phase Six.”
Scott Saleska – Global change ecologist, professor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Arizona, and co-founder of IsoGenie.
Originally aired September 6, 2021
Featuring music by Dewey Dellay and Jun Miyake
You can get early access to ad-free versions of every episode by joining us on Patreon. Thanks for your support!
Big Picture Science is part of the Airwave Media podcast network. Please contact advertising@airwavemedia.com to inquire about advertising on Big Picture Science.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Granting Immunity*
Skeptic Check: UFO Conspiracy
We'll Always Have Parasites
Measure For Measure
Fantastic-er Voyage*
Dinosaurs' Last Gasp*
Allergy Reason
Made for Mars
Skeptic Check: NASA UFO Study
The Ears Have It*
Skeptic Check: The Body Electric
Life in the Solar System
Let's Stick Together*
Skeptic Check: Shroom With a View*
Catching Fire*
Finding Endurance*
The Latest Buzz*
CRISPR Mosquitoes
Skeptic Check: Feeling Risky
Calling All Aliens
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free
Dan Carlin’s Hardcore History
Dan Carlin’s Hardcore History: Addendum
Meditation Oasis
Philosophy Bites
Learn Spanish - Survival Guide