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The BBC Inside Science episode, broadcast on January 8th, 2026, delves into critical scientific and geopolitical subjects, from the mineral riches hidden beneath Greenland’s ice to the enigmatic links between Long Covid and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME). Hosted by Tom Whipple, the 28-minute program offers listeners a deep dive into these complex issues, featuring expert insights and the latest scientific developments.
A primary focus of the episode addresses the profound geopolitical interest surrounding Greenland’s vast, untapped mineral resources. The segment opens by recalling former President Trump’s past aspirations regarding Greenland, a move that brought the remote Arctic territory into sharp international focus. Beyond the political headlines, the episode explores the tangible mineral wealth that has captured global attention, particularly the presence of so-called "rare earth elements." To shed light on this crucial topic, Tom Whipple speaks with Adrian Finch, a distinguished Professor of Geology at St Andrews University. With over three decades of immersive research in Greenland, Professor Finch offers an unparalleled perspective on the geological composition of the island and the specific rare earth elements found there, explaining the unique conditions that have led to their concentration.
Rare earth elements (REEs) are a group of seventeen chemically similar metallic elements crucial for a vast array of modern technologies. Despite their name, many are not geologically rare; however, they are seldom found in concentrations high enough to be economically viable for extraction, and their processing is complex and environmentally challenging. These elements are indispensable components in everything from smartphones, electric vehicles, and wind turbines to advanced defence systems, medical imaging equipment, and catalysts in petroleum refining. The global demand for REEs is skyrocketing as the world transitions to green energy and relies increasingly on high-tech devices, making secure and diversified supply chains a strategic imperative for nations worldwide.
Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, is known to possess significant deposits of these critical elements. Professor Finch elucidates that Greenland’s geology, particularly its alkaline igneous complexes, creates ideal conditions for the formation and concentration of REEs. Areas like Kvanefjeld in southern Greenland, for instance, are estimated to hold some of the largest undeveloped rare earth deposits globally, alongside uranium. Finch’s extensive fieldwork in the region has allowed him to map and understand these complex geological formations, detailing not only the sheer quantity but also the specific types of REEs present, such as neodymium and praseodymium, which are vital for powerful magnets, and dysprosium, essential for high-temperature applications. His insights highlight why Greenland represents a potential game-changer in the global REE market, currently dominated by China, which controls over 80% of the world’s refined rare earth supply.
However, the prospect of large-scale mining in Greenland is fraught with challenges and complex considerations. Environmental concerns loom large, as mining operations could impact the pristine Arctic environment, affecting local ecosystems and potentially contributing to climate change through increased industrial activity. The political landscape is equally intricate; Greenland’s government balances the desire for economic independence through resource exploitation with the need to protect its unique culture and environment. Any major mining project requires careful negotiation, taking into account indigenous rights, environmental impact assessments, and the broader geopolitical implications for Denmark and its allies seeking to diversify their REE sources away from current dependencies. Professor Finch’s discussion on Inside Science undoubtedly explores these multifaceted dimensions, providing listeners with a nuanced understanding of both the immense potential and the significant hurdles associated with Greenland’s rare earth wealth.
Beyond the mineral riches of the Arctic, the episode transitions to a pressing global health crisis: the enduring and often debilitating conditions of Long Covid and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), also known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Professor Danny Altmann, a renowned immunologist, joins Tom Whipple to discuss a groundbreaking new project aimed at understanding the genetic and metabolic similarities between these two challenging illnesses. Long Covid, the persistent symptoms experienced by many after an acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, has drawn parallels with ME, a severe, long-term neuro-immune condition characterized by profound fatigue, post-exertional malaise, and other systemic symptoms. For decades, ME has been poorly understood and often stigmatized, with patients struggling for recognition and effective treatments. The emergence of Long Covid has brought renewed urgency and scientific focus to these types of post-viral syndromes.
Professor Altmann explains the rationale behind investigating genetic and metabolic commonalities. The hypothesis is that shared underlying biological mechanisms, whether inherited predispositions or disruptions in cellular energy pathways and immune responses, could explain the similar symptom profiles and disease trajectories observed in both conditions. By examining genetic markers, researchers hope to identify specific genes or gene variants that might increase susceptibility or influence disease severity. Metabolomic studies, on the other hand, focus on measuring the full complement of metabolites in a biological sample, providing a snapshot of cellular metabolism. Identifying shared metabolic signatures – such as dysregulation in energy production (mitochondrial dysfunction), inflammation pathways, or gut microbiome imbalances – could unlock crucial insights into the pathophysiology of both Long Covid and ME. This new project represents a significant step forward, promising to validate the biological basis of these conditions and move beyond purely symptomatic approaches.
The importance of this research cannot be overstated. Discovering shared genetic and metabolic underpinnings could pave the way for common diagnostic biomarkers, allowing for earlier and more accurate diagnoses for both Long Covid and ME patients. More importantly, it could lead to the development of shared therapeutic strategies that target these fundamental biological pathways, offering hope for effective treatments where few currently exist. By linking these two conditions scientifically, the project also serves to reduce the historical stigma surrounding ME, demonstrating its undeniable biological reality alongside the more recently recognized Long Covid. Professor Altmann’s discussion highlights the collaborative, interdisciplinary approach required to tackle such complex diseases, bringing together genomics, metabolomics, immunology, and clinical research to improve patient outcomes globally.
Concluding the episode, Lizzie Gibney, a senior physics reporter at Nature, provides her insightful pick of the best new science discoveries of the week. This segment offers listeners a concise yet engaging overview of cutting-edge research from across the scientific spectrum, ensuring they remain informed about the latest breakthroughs beyond the main features. Her expertise as a physics reporter often means a focus on fundamental discoveries, but her selections invariably cover a broad range of scientific disciplines, making it a valuable update for any science enthusiast.
The BBC Inside Science episode, produced by Clare Salisbury and edited by Martin Smith, with production coordination by Jana Bennett-Holesworth, exemplifies the programme’s commitment to delivering accessible and authoritative scientific journalism. By tackling topics as diverse as Arctic geology, global resource politics, and the intricacies of chronic illnesses, the show continues to illuminate the profound impact of science on our world. For those eager to explore more fascinating scientific content, the BBC encourages listeners to visit bbc.co.uk, search for BBC Inside Science, and follow the links to The Open University for additional resources and learning opportunities.
atisusanti
George Anjay
