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The Climate Question

The Climate Question

How hot could the planet get?

25 January 2026

26 minutes

Available for over a year

We know the planet is getting hotter because of human-induced climate change. But just how hot could it get?

In this show, Graihagh Jackson and Jordan Dunbar chat to NASA scientist, Kate Marvel, about the world of climate modelling. Kate has spent decades trying to work out what will happen to the Earth as emissions of carbon dioxide increase.

Although the basic facts of climate change are settled, climate modellers are trying to understand how photosynthesis by plants will change in a warmer world. And they’re also puzzling over the crucial role played by clouds!

Recently, Kate has written Human Nature, a book about how climate change affects our emotions - from grief and anger to hope and love. She says the wide range of feelings prompted by global warming are compatible with getting the science right.

Hosts: Graihagh Jackson and Jordan Dunbar

Guest: Kate Marvel, Climate scientist and author

Production Team: Nik Sindle, Diane Richardson, Brenda Brown

Sound Mix: Phil Bull and Tom Brignell

Editor: Simon Watts

If you have a question for the team, email: TheClimateQuestion@BBC.com or WhatsApp: +44 8000 321 721

Image credit: Wildfires in California, Reuters