Many years ago – I recall not when – I was driving to a place – I recall not where – whilst listening to the radio – I recall not why – and someone was speaking – I recall not who. In fact, I remember next to nothing relating to this anecdote, apart from what … Continue reading
Author Archives: John Ridgway
Global Warming may be making baboons less aggressive – are humans next?
A study published in the American Journal of Primatology, by renowned neurobiologist and primatologist, Professor Robert Sapolsky of Stanford University, has shown that levels of intra-group aggression exhibited by troupes of baboons on the Serengeti Plains diminishes significantly during periods of drought. The reasons for this moderation of behaviour are unclear but it may … Continue reading
The Revenge of Incy Wincy Spider
I think we are all familiar with the exploits of Ms Wincy, of order Araneae. But, just in case you are not, I will recap: Apparently, said spider climbed up a waterspout only for the rain to come down, thereby washing her out (the details are unimportant). Fortunately, or perhaps inevitably, the sun returned, resulting … Continue reading
The Truth is in the Ashes
Very often it isn’t what you say that dictates the narrative, it’s what you choose to omit. The BBC understands this very well when it comes to reporting extreme weather events. Extreme storms and flooding require more energy and moisture to be held in the atmosphere. This can be expected with global warming and so … Continue reading
Birdageddon!
I’m something of a bird-watching enthusiast and so can often be found thinking about visiting my local reserve, RSPB Saltholme. You can imagine, therefore, my alarm and surprise to discover that the RSPB had recently approved the building of a gas turbine power station on land immediately adjacent to such precious habitat – cherished as … Continue reading
When Philosophers Attack
I had promised myself that I would waste no further time writing about the misconceptions and controversies surrounding the application of risk management within the climate change context. The evidence would suggest that I have said all I have to say on the subject, and folk are now getting a bit fed up of hearing … Continue reading
Risk Analysis – What a Real Expert has Said About it
I would like to share with you a few words of wisdom provided by a gentleman I had the privilege to work with back in my days as a safety risk analyst. His name is Felix Redmill and, prior to his recent retirement, he was an internationally recognised expert within the field.1 All of … Continue reading
