ISGP's "The Forum"

HOT TOPIC: Sugar substitutes. Sugar substitutes are popular for many reasons, but rumors about their impacts on health are rampant. Do sweeteners improve dental health and reduce diabetes risk? Do they cause cancer? Or are they just a neutral component of your favorite diet soda? Featuring: Erik Millstone, University of Sussex Socialize with science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. Furthermore, a member of the co-host team is currently employed by the U.S. Department of State, but the views expressed in this episode are not necessarily those of the U.S. Government. For more information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org.

HOT TOPIC: Pre- and probiotics. What are prebiotics and probiotics, and how do they interact with the gut microbiome? Plus, you might be surprised to learn how probiotic supplements are regulated. Featuring: Mindy Haar, New York Institute of Technology Socialize with science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. Furthermore, a member of the co-host team is currently employed by the U.S. Department of State, but the views expressed in this episode are not necessarily those of the U.S. Government. For more information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org.

HOT TOPIC: Space exploration. Discover some of the greatest remaining challenges associated with space exploration, as well as the technologies being developed to overcome them. Plus, can international agreements ensure that off-planet exporation occurs responsibly? Featuring: Lynn Rothschild, NASA Socialize with science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. Furthermore, a member of the co-host team is currently employed by the U.S. Department of State, but the views expressed in this episode are not necessarily those of the U.S. Government. For more information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org.

HOT TOPIC: Sustainable Development Goals. The Sustainable Development Goals, or SDGs, are a set of targets for the world to meet by the year 2030. Learn how science and technology can help us accomplish them. Featuring: Darin Detwiler, Northeastern University Socialize with science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. Furthermore, a member of the co-host team is currently employed by the U.S. Department of State, but the views expressed in this episode are not necessarily those of the U.S. Government. For more information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org.

HOT TOPIC: Plastic pollution. Plastic pollution in waterways harms marine life and could even affect human health. Learn how a combination of individual and collective actions can help make a dent in this growing global challenge. Featuring: Kera Abraham Panni, Monterey Bay Aquarium Socialize with science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. Furthermore, a member of the co-host team is currently employed by the U.S. Department of State, but the views expressed in this episode are not necessarily those of the U.S. Government. For more information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org.

HOT TOPIC: 3D printing. 3D printing is a technology that could transform the manufacturing industry, making supply chains more environmentally and economically sound. Learn how 3D printing works, the societal opportunities and challenges it provides, and how policy makers could play a role in guiding its use. Featuring: Joe DeSimone, Carbon Socialize with science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. Furthermore, a member of the co-host team is currently employed by the U.S. Department of State, but the views expressed in this episode are not necessarily those of the U.S. Government. For more information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org.

HOT TOPIC: Academic scientists. Learn about the roles and responsibilities of academic scientists all over the world! Would it surprise you to discover that only a fraction of their time is spent at a laboratory bench? Featuring: Li Li, Harvard Medical School Socialize with science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

PAPER TOPIC: Double burden (within “nutrition”). The term "double burden" refers to populations that are both overweight and undernourished, a phenomenon that is increasing in frequency and often associated with poverty. The co-hosts outline food policies that could help address the double burden, such as calorie-labeling on menus and subsidizing healthy foods in the marketplace. Featuring: A Position Paper by Mindy Kurzer (University of Minnesota) Socialize with science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using @ISGPforum. This episode has been re-released in celebration of The Forum's four-year anniversary. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts reflect the views expressed by conference participants. ISGP conferences follow a unique debate-and-caucus format. Distinguished scientists write 3-page policy position papers, then engage in 90 minutes of intensive debate with invited subject matter experts, policy makers, and other stakeholders collectively known as “the debaters.” Following the debates, participants engage in small, moderated caucus sessions to identify areas of consensus and actionable next steps. All conference participants then reconvene for a plenary session to compare the outcomes from each caucus group. For more information, please visit www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

PAPER TOPIC: Vaccines (within “infectious disease”). In recent years, the Western world has witnessed an "anti-vaccine movement," despite the efficacy of vaccines in preventing disease transmission. What caused this phenomenon, and what can be done to stop it? Featuring: A Position Paper by David Markovitz (University of Michigan) Socialize with science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using @ISGPforum. This episode has been re-released in celebration of The Forum's four-year anniversary. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts reflect the views expressed by conference participants. ISGP conferences follow a unique debate-and-caucus format. Distinguished scientists write 3-page policy position papers, then engage in 90 minutes of intensive debate with invited subject matter experts, policy makers, and other stakeholders collectively known as “the debaters.” Following the debates, participants engage in small, moderated caucus sessions to identify areas of consensus and actionable next steps. All conference participants then reconvene for a plenary session to compare the outcomes from each caucus group. For more information, please visit www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

PAPER TOPIC: Colorado River Basin (within “climate change”). The Colorado River Basin region has made efforts in water management that could be applicable to other parts of the world facing a water-insecure future. Featuring: A Position Paper by Sharon Megdal (University of Arizona) Socialize with science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using @ISGPforum. This episode has been re-released in celebration of The Forum's four-year anniversary. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts reflect the views expressed by conference participants. ISGP conferences follow a unique debate-and-caucus format. Distinguished scientists write 3-page policy position papers, then engage in 90 minutes of intensive debate with invited subject matter experts, policy makers, and other stakeholders collectively known as “the debaters.” Following the debates, participants engage in small, moderated caucus sessions to identify areas of consensus and actionable next steps. All conference participants then reconvene for a plenary session to compare the outcomes from each caucus group. For more information, please visit www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

PAPER TOPIC: Xenobiology (within “synthetic biology”). Xenobiology involves making new organisms with an altered genetic code, by using XNA instead of DNA, for instance. Could this be the tool we've been looking for to help us safely use synthetic biology in the real world? Featuring: A Position Paper by Markus Schmidt (Biofaction KG) Socialize with science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using @ISGPforum. This episode has been re-released in celebration of The Forum's four-year anniversary. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts reflect the views expressed by conference participants. ISGP conferences follow a unique debate-and-caucus format. Distinguished scientists write 3-page policy position papers, then engage in 90 minutes of intensive debate with invited subject matter experts, policy makers, and other stakeholders collectively known as “the debaters.” Following the debates, participants engage in small, moderated caucus sessions to identify areas of consensus and actionable next steps. All conference participants then reconvene for a plenary session to compare the outcomes from each caucus group. For more information, please visit www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

PAPER TOPIC: Coastal adaptation (within “sea level rise and severe storms”). New Jersey is home to one of the many coastlines already feeling the impact of climate change in the form of storm surge and coastal flooding. For how long can we simply rebuild following severe storms? Featuring: A Position Paper by Tom Knutson (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) Socialize with science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using @ISGPforum. This episode has been re-released in celebration of The Forum's four-year anniversary. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts reflect the views expressed by conference participants. ISGP conferences follow a unique debate-and-caucus format. Distinguished scientists write 3-page policy position papers, then engage in 90 minutes of intensive debate with invited subject matter experts, policy makers, and other stakeholders collectively known as “the debaters.” Following the debates, participants engage in small, moderated caucus sessions to identify areas of consensus and actionable next steps. All conference participants then reconvene for a plenary session to compare the outcomes from each caucus group. For more information, please visit www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

PAPER TOPIC: Science storytelling (within “science communication”). Is storytelling the best way to translate scientific information to nonscientific audiences? Featuring: A Position Paper by Liz Neeley (Story Collider) Socialize with science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using @ISGPforum. This episode has been re-released in celebration of The Forum's four-year anniversary. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts reflect the views expressed by conference participants. ISGP conferences follow a unique debate-and-caucus format. Distinguished scientists write 3-page policy position papers, then engage in 90 minutes of intensive debate with invited subject matter experts, policy makers, and other stakeholders collectively known as “the debaters.” Following the debates, participants engage in small, moderated caucus sessions to identify areas of consensus and actionable next steps. All conference participants then reconvene for a plenary session to compare the outcomes from each caucus group. For more information, please visit www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

PAPER TOPIC: Genetically modified organisms (GMOs; within “food safety”). GMOs - Are they the solution to widespread food insecurity in the face of rapid population growth? Featuring: A Position Paper by Jennifer Thomson (University of Cape Town) Socialize with science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using @ISGPforum. This episode has been re-released in celebration of The Forum's four-year anniversary. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts reflect the views expressed by conference participants. ISGP conferences follow a unique debate-and-caucus format. Distinguished scientists write 3-page policy position papers, then engage in 90 minutes of intensive debate with invited subject matter experts, policy makers, and other stakeholders collectively known as “the debaters.” Following the debates, participants engage in small, moderated caucus sessions to identify areas of consensus and actionable next steps. All conference participants then reconvene for a plenary session to compare the outcomes from each caucus group. For more information, please visit www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

PAPER TOPIC: Antimicrobial resistance (within “public health”). Why is antibiotic resistance occurring so quickly, and is there anything we can do to stop it? Featuring: A Position Paper by Eili Klein (Johns Hopkins University) Socialize with science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using @ISGPforum. This episode has been re-released in celebration of The Forum's four-year anniversary. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts reflect the views expressed by conference participants. ISGP conferences follow a unique debate-and-caucus format. Distinguished scientists write 3-page policy position papers, then engage in 90 minutes of intensive debate with invited subject matter experts, policy makers, and other stakeholders collectively known as “the debaters.” Following the debates, participants engage in small, moderated caucus sessions to identify areas of consensus and actionable next steps. All conference participants then reconvene for a plenary session to compare the outcomes from each caucus group. For more information, please visit www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Diet trends. Diets like keto, paleo, alkaline, intermittent fasting, and carb cycling are all the rage, but how much do you know about the effects they have on human and environmental health? Featuring: Gary Frost, Imperial College London; Debbie Fetter, University of California Davis; Mirthe Eckl, Mirthe Functional Medicine Socialize with science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Rainforests. Rainforests are intertwined with everyone's lives, whether via the materials they produce or their role in regulating climate. Learn what constitutes a healthy rainforest, the challenges they face, and how fires fit into the picture. Featuring: Daniel Nepstad, Earth Innovation Institute; Angelica Almeyda Zambrano, University of Florida; Robin Chazdon, University of the Sunshine Coast Socialize with science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Screen time. The ubiquity of screens has caused an increase in discretionary sedentary behavior, which has negative health impacts. But screens have benefits, too. How can we maximize the benefits of screen time while minimizing the drawbacks, and how does physical activity fit into the picture? Featuring: Bill Kohl, UTHealth School of Public Health Socialize with science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Coral reef conservation. Learn about the laundry list of challenges currently facing corals and coral reefs, as well as why (and how) we might want to conserve and protect them. Featuring: John McManus, University of Miami Socialize with science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Invisible diseases. The co-hosts shine a spotlight on the "invisible diseases" anxiety and depression by discussing neurological, psychoanalytical, and cognitive approaches to understanding how they manifest. Plus, learn how access challenges are hindering treatment of these common afflictions. Featuring: Ted Bradshaw, University of Nottingham Socialize with science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Chronic wasting disease. Chronic wasting disease, or CWD, is a prion disease spreading to deer, elk, and moose populations across the globe. Are we dealing with the next mad cow disease? In other words, can CWD be transmitted to humans? Featuring: Ryan Maddox, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Socialize with science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Artificial intelligence. Whether you realize it or not, you interact with artificial intelligence (AI) each and every day. How does it work, what's next for this technology, and can it be regulated? Learn all that and more in the 100th episode of ISGP's "The Forum"! Featuring: Michael Littman, Brown University Socialize with science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: E-cigarettes. Are e-cigarettes safe? Are they less harmful than traditional cigarettes? And do they help people quit smoking, or do they encourage non-smokers to start? Featuring: Linda Bauld, University of Edinburgh, and Elisa Trucco, Florida International University Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Cottage foods. Cottage foods are small-scale food products prepared for distribution at farmers markets, bake sales, and similar venues. How do states regulate their safety without stifling small businesses? Featuring: Erica Smith, Institute for Justice, and Doug Farquhar, National Conference of State Legislatures Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: At-home genetic testing. At-home genetic testing is a fun way to learn about ancestry, uncover disease predispositions, and find long-lost relatives. But the popularity of these tests has introduced many medical and ethical concerns that warrant discussion. Featuring: Payal Shah, Penn Medicine, and Kelly Sorensen, Ursinus College Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Science skepticism. When is science skepticism a good thing? At what point does it become detrimental? Plus, learn how the Silencing Science Tracker is raising public awareness about misrepresentation of science. Featuring: Daniele Fanelli, London School of Economics, and Romany Webb, Sabin Center for Climate Change Law Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Ocean acidification. What's causing ocean acidification, and how does it affect you even if you don't live near a coastline? Plus, learn how we can mitigate the effects of ocean acidification before they become irreversible. Featuring: Sarah Cooley, Ocean Conservancy, and Lisa Suatoni, Natural Resources Defense Council Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Oil spills. What constitutes an oil spill, what effects can spills have, and how do responders clean them up? Learn the basics of oil spill response and why remediation challenges must be overcome on a case-by-case basis. Featuring: Robyn Conmy, Jon Gulch, and Jeff Kimble, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Anaerobic digestion and biogas. Anaerobic digestion describes the process of using microorganisms to break down food and animal waste, generating biogas as a result. Learn how biogas can be used as a renewable source of heat and energy, as well as hurdles hindering broad implementation. Featuring: Salman Tariq, Davaam Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Wind energy. Wind energy is a form of clean power that's been getting a lot of attention in the news. Learn how wind turbines work, whether they're really as noisy and bird-killing as people think, and how wind energy stacks up against solar power. Featuring: Kassandra McQuillen, Texas Tech University Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Carbon dioxide utilization. Carbon dioxide utilization describes the process of transforming this greenhouse gas into marketable products, like chemicals or fuels. Can carbon dioxide utilization be a realistic, profitable solution to climate change? What challenges hinder this overly ideal option? Featuring: Andrew Bocarsly, Princeton University Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Insect protein. Experts agree that relying on animal meat as our primary protein source in the future is unsustainable. Could the use of insect protein in human food and animal feed realistically decrease our dependence on meat? And could eating insects actually save insects from extinction? Featuring: Arnold Van Huis, Wageningen University Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Nuclear energy and society. What does a nuclear meltdown actually entail, and how should environmental justice concerns influence decisions about nuclear power? Part two of our two-episode miniseries on nuclear energy examines risks related to climate change, waste disposal, and more in this socially charged conversation. Featuring: Steven Krahn, Vanderbilt University, and Randolph Haluza-DeLay, The King's University Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Nuclear energy generation and waste. Nuclear power has been around for awhile and is one of the most technologically advanced forms of zero-carbon energy in our arsenal. In Part 1 of our two-episode miniseries on the subject, learn about nuclear energy generation and associated waste management. Featuring: Steven Krahn, Vanderbilt University Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Carbon dioxide capture and storage. One possible solution to climate change is carbon dioxide capture and storage (CCS), whereby CO2 is collected and then sequestered underground. How does this process work, where is it already occurring, and how did the U.S. government recently encourage its expansion? Featuring: Steve Pacala, Princeton University Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Food labelling and dietary patterns. A growing body of evidence following the implementation of Chile's Law on Food Labelling and Advertising suggests that dietary patterns are influenced by food packages and advertising. How did Chile pass a law that restricts food mascots, mandates labels for unhealthy ingredients, and eliminates child-targeted marketing? Why haven't other countries been successful with similar attempts? Featuring: Jaime Burrows, Ministry of Health of Chile Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Pollinators. Bees are quite possibly the most important pollinators on the planet, but their well-being is under siege. Learn what's happening to the bees, how this could affect our food system, and what governments and individuals are doing to help address the problem. Featuring: Mark Winston, Simon Fraser University Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Portrayal of scientists in pop culture. The public's impression of scientists (and science as a whole) is often shaped by characters depicted in TV or movies. How has the portrayal of scientists in the entertainment industry changed over time, and what can a show like The Big Bang Theory teach us about the strategic use of science in pop culture? Featuring: Ingrid Ockert, Science History Institute, and David Saltzberg, UCLA/The Big Bang Theory Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Seed banks. Regional, national, and international seed banks have an important role in preserving plant genetic material. Learn how proper operation of these facilities helps safeguard our agricultural future while preserving heritage and promoting health. Featuring: Lise Lykke Steffensen, NordGen Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Biodiversity. What is biodiversity, how is it measured, and why is it important? In this episode, learn about biodiversity management and how this practice interacts with agriculture, value systems, and policy. Featuring: Daniel Karp, University of California Davis, and Lizzie Callaway, University of Utah Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Lyme disease perception and prevention. People tend to have an inaccurate perception of their risk of contracting Lyme disease. In Part 2 of our two-episode miniseries on Lyme disease, learn how public health officials communicate disease risk and what prevention measures are used to reach different community groups. Featuring: Bryon Backenson, New York State Department of Health Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For information on The Forum, please visit www.ISGPforum.org, and to learn more about the ISGP, check out www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Lyme disease ecology. Lyme disease is a common public health threat in many parts of the world. In Part 1 of our two-episode miniseries on Lyme disease, learn about the complex connection between disease risk, local ecology, and climate change. Featuring: Felicia Keesing, Bard College Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For more information on the ISGP or its podcast series, please visit www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Blockchain. We've all heard of blockchain technology, but what is it and how does it work? The co-hosts explain the details and discuss a variety of lesser-known blockchain applications beyond cryptocurrency. (Guest Co-Host) Featuring: Scott Stornetta, Co-Founder of Blockchain Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For more information on the ISGP or its podcast series, please visit www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Air pollution and health. Air pollution is harmful to human health, but just how much pollution is too much? Which pollutants cause which ailments, and how does an individual's genome influence their susceptibility? That's just what the Exposomics research project is trying to find out. Featuring: Paolo Vineis, Imperial College London Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For more information on the ISGP or its podcast series, please visit www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Scientists as activists, advocates, and politicians. Scientists are known for their research in the lab and field, but should they double as activists, advocates, or politicians? Do these roles compromise scientists' objectiveness, or does current science skepticism demand action? Featuring: Shaughnessy Naughton, 314 Action Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For more information on the ISGP or its podcast series, please visit www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: Solar energy. The co-hosts outline the basics of solar energy, ranging from solar panel function to interactions between arrays and the larger power grid. How are scientists addressing challenges associated with energy storage, conversion efficiency, and cost efficacy? What can we expect from solar energy in the future? Featuring: Bill Hutzel, Purdue University Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For more information on the ISGP or its podcast series, please visit www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

HOT TOPIC: CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing. The co-hosts discuss the science behind CRISPR-Cas9, case study its potential applications in food and health care, and answer the big question...How soon can we expect gene editing to hit grocery store shelves and hospital wings? Featuring: Kevin Doxzen and Lea Witkowsky, Innovative Genomics Institute Socialize with science on Twitter and Facebook using @ISGPforum. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts within the "Hot Topics Series" (Episodes 75+) reflect the views expressed by featured guests. For more information on the ISGP or its podcast series, please visit www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

Native North American populations are suffering from unprecedented rates of long-term chronic disease and poor mental health, largely associated with lifestyle changes and a transition from land-based to processed foods. But it actually might not be too late to reverse this "nutritional transition." Equitable, Sustainable, and Healthy Food Environments (FSSD), Samson Socialize with science on Twitter using @ISGPforum with #ISGPforum, and read the policy position paper and debate summary associated with this episode at the Institute on Science for Global Policy's website: www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts reflect the views expressed by conference participants. ISGP conferences follow an unique debate-and-caucus format. Distinguished scientists write 3-page policy position papers, then engage in 90 minutes of intensive debate with invited subject matter experts, policy makers, and other stakeholders collectively known as “the debaters.” Following the debates, participants engage in small, moderated caucus sessions to identify areas of consensus and actionable next steps. All conference participants then reconvene for a plenary session to compare the outcomes from each caucus group. For more information, please visit www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

Overcoming food security challenges will involve addressing distribution, nutrition, environmental, and social concerns; it's not just about producing enough calories. How can new technologies, including robots and data analytics, be of assistance? Equitable, Sustainable, and Healthy Food Environments (FSSD), Fraser Socialize with science on Twitter using @ISGPforum with #ISGPforum, and read the policy position paper and debate summary associated with this episode at the Institute on Science for Global Policy's website: www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts reflect the views expressed by conference participants. ISGP conferences follow an unique debate-and-caucus format. Distinguished scientists write 3-page policy position papers, then engage in 90 minutes of intensive debate with invited subject matter experts, policy makers, and other stakeholders collectively known as “the debaters.” Following the debates, participants engage in small, moderated caucus sessions to identify areas of consensus and actionable next steps. All conference participants then reconvene for a plenary session to compare the outcomes from each caucus group. For more information, please visit www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

The term "double burden" refers to populations that are both overweight and undernourished, a phenomenon that is increasing in frequency and often associated with poverty. The co-hosts outline food policies that could help address the double burden, such as calorie-labeling on menus and subsidizing healthy foods in the marketplace. Equitable, Sustainable, and Healthy Food Environments (FSSD), Kurzer Socialize with science on Twitter using @ISGPforum with #ISGPforum, and read the policy position paper and debate summary associated with this episode at the Institute on Science for Global Policy's website: www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts reflect the views expressed by conference participants. ISGP conferences follow an unique debate-and-caucus format. Distinguished scientists write 3-page policy position papers, then engage in 90 minutes of intensive debate with invited subject matter experts, policy makers, and other stakeholders collectively known as “the debaters.” Following the debates, participants engage in small, moderated caucus sessions to identify areas of consensus and actionable next steps. All conference participants then reconvene for a plenary session to compare the outcomes from each caucus group. For more information, please visit www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.

Although the thought may make you squeamish, a zero-tolerance policy toward food safety risk is nonscientific, impractical, and itself risky. The co-hosts discuss ways to quantify acceptable risk in the food system, avoid scaring consumers in the process, and begin incorporating the concept of chronic disease risk into the definition of "food safety." Food and the Environment, Stoeckel (FSSD) Socialize with science on Twitter using @ISGPforum with #ISGPforum, and read the policy position paper and debate summary associated with this episode at the Institute on Science for Global Policy's website: www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org. Disclaimer: The ISGP is a nonprofit organization that does not lobby for any position except rational thinking. Podcasts reflect the views expressed by conference participants. ISGP conferences follow an unique debate-and-caucus format. Distinguished scientists write 3-page policy position papers, then engage in 90 minutes of intensive debate with invited subject matter experts, policy makers, and other stakeholders collectively known as “the debaters.” Following the debates, participants engage in small, moderated caucus sessions to identify areas of consensus and actionable next steps. All conference participants then reconvene for a plenary session to compare the outcomes from each caucus group. For more information, please visit www.scienceforglobalpolicy.org.