This episode of the Climate Emergency Forum explores the fascinating hidden world of fungi. Often overlooked, fungi are revealed here as a powerful, pervasive, and mysterious kingdom of life, thriving everywhere from the ocean depths to mountain peaks. The conversation unpacks their vital roles in ecosystems, carbon sequestration, medicine, agriculture, and even climate change adaptation—demonstrating just how interconnected and influential these organisms are to life on Earth.
This video was recorded on October 8th, 2025, and published on October 27th, 2025, and represents the opinions of the discussion participants.
The panel discusses the dual nature of fungi: their capacity to sustain life through processes like nutrient cycling, disease prevention in plants, and even innovative materials for eco-friendly products—contrasted with the looming threats posed by fungal diseases, agricultural impacts, and emerging health risks intensified by a warming climate. The hosts share both personal anecdotes and recent scientific findings, delving into topics from the ancient origins of fungi to the alarming potential of crop failures and new pathogens as global temperatures rise.
Tune in for an engaging and informative discussion that not only highlights the unsung benefits of fungi but also issues a wake-up call about their increasingly prominent place in our changing environment. Stay for the closing climate news, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Climate Emergency Forum for more in-depth conversations and updates on the climate crisis.
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Dr. Peter Carter - MD, Expert IPCC Reviewer and the director of the Climate Emergency Institute
Paul Beckwith - Climate Systems Scientist. Professor at the University of Ottawa’s Paleoclimatology Laboratory as well as at Carleton University
Herb Simmens - Author, Co-founder of the Healthy Planet Action Coalition (HPAC), Climate Emergency Board Member and former college instructor.
Charles Gregoire - Electrical Engineer, Webmaster and IT prime for FacingFuture.Earth & the Climate Emergency Forum; Climate Reality Leader
Heidi Brault - Climate Reality Leader, BA(Psychology), Library & Information Technician Diploma - Video production and website assistant - Organizer and convener, Metadata technician, COP Team Lead for FacingFuture.Earth and the Climate Emergency Forum.
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