On This Programme

Science

Polaris II is the University of Otago's new marine research vessel. It recently completed its first major expedition - taking a team of geologists, ecologists and botanists to Campbell Island in the Subantarctic. Dacia Herbulock went aboard the boat on its return to Dunedin hear about the voyage.

Boat in harbour
Polaris ii docked in Careys Bay, Otago Harbour

Environment

After lengthy and difficult negotiations, the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Bali ended on a high note last weekend. Representatives from 187 nations agreed to launch negotiations towards a strengthened global climate change deal, to be finalised by 2009 so that it enters into force at the end of the first phase of the Kyoto Protocol. Veronika Meduna was in Bali for the conference. She visited some of the climate-related projects there that are already making a difference.

Charissa Snijders is an Auckland architect who's taking sustainability to new levels: she believes our structures should be socially, culturally, economically, environmentally and spiritually sustainable. Amelia Nurse talks to her about some of her ideas where she'd like to take them in the future.

Health

Fighting Globesity is the title of a book published recently by Phillip Mills, the founder of Les Mills Gyms, and his wife Jackie Mills - a physician. The book explains their concerns about sustainability and global warming, and how fitness and diet - their areas of expertise - may play a significant role in securing the future of the planet. Louise Wallace, in her final report for Our Changing World, meets with Phillip Mills to discuss the relationship between obesity and environmental health.

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