PBS Digital Studios launched today its new original YouTube program, “Hot Mess,” dedicated to explaining both the scientific impacts of climate change and how it impacts our daily lives. Published every Thursday, episodes showcase climate stories through the lens of one of its three hosts: ProPublica reporter Talia Buford, who covers disparities in environmental impacts; Joe Hanson, a biologist, science writer and host of the PBS Digital Studios show “It’s Okay to Be Smart”; and environmental journalist Miriam Nielsen.
The series premiere features Hanson on how scientists define climate change and what role people play in the world’s shifting environment. On May 3, Buford will make her “Hot Mess” debut as the host of an episode providing an overview of environmental justice — and why it’s important to include it when we talk about climate change. In future episodes she will explore environmental law and policy, the economics of climate change and the role that community relationships affect how people adapt to extreme weather.
“I’m thrilled to be part of a show that breaks down how the world is dealing with climate change in an engaging and tangible way,” said Buford, “I’m especially excited to tell stories on how environmental issues specifically impact vulnerable groups, as an extension of my work at ProPublica.”
Tune in to “Hot Mess” weekly on YouTube, as well as Facebook Watch.