While most of us agree that it is not, there are issues causing increasing concern.

Rocket launches, space debris and obsolete space equipment burning up on re-entry all have environmental consequences down here as well as up there. Should we be more careful with our space endeavours?

In this episode of E+T: Off the Page, the team explores the growing landmine crisis in Ukraine, now the most heavily mined country in the world after three years of war with Russia. Host Tim Fryerspeaks with Michael Nevard, director of capability at the Halo Trust, about the devastating impact of landmines on civilians and the long-term challenges of de-mining.

The discussion focuses on how Halo employs local Ukrainians to safely clearmines to help communities reclaim their land. Nevard also explains how land mine technology has evolved, which can make detection and removal increasingly complex.

The conversation also highlights the broader, global issue of landmine contamination, referencing Cambodia, Syria,and Afghanistan, where decades-old mines still maim civilians. In addition, the team explores the financial and logistical hurdles of de-mining, while stressing its humanitarian and economic benefits.

Hosted by: Tim Fryer and Tanya Weaver

Special Guest: Stephanie Metzger, Policy Advisor at the Royal Society of Chemistry.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances - better known as PFAS or Forever Chemicals, are incredibly useful. They are so good at repelling water, oil and heat that they are used in a multitude of everyday applications. However, there is evidence linking them to serious health issues including cancers and, as the name Forever Chemicals suggests, they are very difficult to get rid of. So how are we going to engineer our way out of this problem?

Regulars Tim Fryer and Tanya Weaver are joined by guest Stephanie Metzger, Policy Advisor at the Royal Society of Chemistry.