How hot could the planet get?

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. Presenter: Graihagh Jackson and Jordan Dunbar Production Team: Nik Sindle, Diane Richardson, Brenda Brown Sound engineer: 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: Wildfires in California. Credit: Reuters)

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How hot could the planet get? is an episode from The Climate Question by BBC.

This episode is 26:29 long.

This episode was published on Jan 25, 2026.

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