It’s crunch time for the oceans and shipping sector, and tensions are high. Dr Simon Chin-Yee brings you this special episode of #UCLGenerationOne in the midst of critical negotiations at the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

Simon speaks to colleagues who have travelled across the oceans to the IMO: the UN agency responsible for regulating the shipping sector. In April 2025, countries came together to negotiate the IMO Net-Zero Framework, including a set of ‘mid-term measures’ to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with 2023 targets.

In this episode, Fijian performing artist and climate advocate John Taukave (Pacific Coordinating Group) and Eldine Glees (Maritime Policy Consultant) discuss the importance of a just and equitable transition for small islands and developing countries.

And as the dust settles, Simon picks up with Opportunity Green’s Emma Fenton to break down what actually happened, and what it means for the future of green shipping.

The stakes are huge: will the IMO agree to decarbonise global shipping while ensuring no one is left behind? Find out in our podcast Talanoa!

Transcript: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/climate-change/podcasts-videos/ucl-generation-one-climate-podcast

Date of episode recording: 5 and 16 April 2025

Duration: 55:40

Language of episode: English 
Presenter: Professor Mark Maslin and Dr Simon Chin-Yee 
Guests:

John Taukave, Micronesian Center for Sustainable Transport

Eldine Chilembo Glees, Micronesian Center for Sustainable Transport

Emma Fenton, Senior Director, Climate Diplomacy at Opportunity Green

Producers:

Adam Batstone

Caitlin Mullin

What is the Climate and Nature Bill, and why does it matter?

The Zero Hour campaign is here to tell us, as we dive into their efforts to secure widespread backing for the Climate and Nature Bill. The Bill, which had its Second Reading in Parliament on 24 January 2025, aims to strengthen the UK government’s commitments to cut emissions, restore nature, and ensure public consultation on the road to net zero.

Hosts Mark and Simon are joined by Simon Oldridge, Policy Advisor at Zero Hour to break down the key components of the Bill, and why it’s crucial to tackling the climate emergency. Simon also sheds light on how Zero Hour managed to gain cross-party support for the Bill, and what individuals can do to help it get passed.

We also hear from the Bill’s sponsor: Liberal Democrat MP Roz Savage, on why she believes it’s a vital step needed on climate action. And from Conservative MP Andrew Bowie, who shares his concerns about the Bill and why he remains a critic.

Find out more about the Zero Hour campaign:
www.zerohour.uk/
www.youtube.com/@zerohour_uk

UCL’s Love Your Planet event: www.ucl.ac.uk/grand-challenges/e…e-your-planet-2025

Transcript: www.ucl.ac.uk/climate-change/pod…ne-climate-podcast

Date of episode recording: 31st February 2025
Duration: 32.51 mins
Language of episode: English
Presenter: Professor Mark Maslin and Dr Simon Chin-Yee
Guests:
Simon Oldridge, Policy Advisor at Zero Hour
Producers:
Adam Batstone
Caitlin Mullin