First climate tipping point triggered; Man controls another person’s body by brain implant; health worries over sumo wrestlers

Episode 326

The world’s first major climate tipping point has been triggered. The decimation of warm water coral populations caused by rising temperatures is now irreversible - passing the point of no return. The global consequences of widescale coral dieback could be catastrophic, so experts are sounding the alarm. But is anyone listening?

A man with paralysis has telepathically controlled the hands of another person. Keith Thomas is unable to move or feel through his hands. But thanks to a new advancement, using brain and muscle electrodes, he was able to control the hands of a non-paralysed woman using his thoughts alone. Could this one day lead to Avatar-like body control technology?

For only the second time in its 1,500-year history, professional Sumo wrestling has left Japan. A Grand Sumo Tournament is being held at London’s Albert Hall, where over 40 elite wrestlers are competing in a five day tournament. Sumo writer John Gunning discusses the physics of sumo, the incredible diets of the wrestlers and the worrying consequences of the sport on their longevity.

Chapters:

(00:00) Intro

(01:34) Coral tipping point

(11:23) Avatar brain implant

(22:10) The longevity of sumo wrestlers

Hosted by Rowan Hooper and Penny Sarchet, with guests Madeleine Cuff, Carissa Wong and John Gunning.

To read more about these stories, visit https://www.newscientist.com/

Learn more about Yakult at www.yakult.co.uk

Get your ticket for New Scientist Live here: https://live.newscientist.com/ 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices