The Current for April 9, 2019
Today on The Current: We speak with a mother who says air pollution played a role in the death of her nine-year-old daughter; plus, we look at Russia’s latest display of military might in the Arctic, and how Canada should respond; also, we look at playgrounds designed for adults; and hear from an expert who says public policy ‘nudges’ like organ donation opt-out programs need to be deployed carefully.
Today on The Current:
- A new Ultra Low Emission Zone came into effect this week in London, U.K., meaning that drivers will have to pay to drive anything but the greenest vehicles through the centre of the capital. We look at efforts around the world, and speak with a mother who says air pollution near their south London home played a role in the death of her nine-year-old daughter.
- Russia's latest display of military might in the Arctic highlights a coming tug-of-war over influence in the far north. Is Canada ready to protect its interests?
- A new indoor playground designed for adults has opened in Toronto, part of a trend gaining popularity worldwide. Despite being good fun, some experts say they can help adults deal with stress and emotional issues. Others say it's time we all just grew up a little. We hear both sides of the argument.
- Nova Scotia has introduced a "presumed consent" system for organ donation, meaning that people must opt out if they don't want to donate. The idea behind it — "nudging" citizens into better choices — is part of a global trend steeped in behavioural science, but not everyone agrees. Tim Harford, who writes The Undercover Economist column for the Financial Times, argues that the tactic should be used carefully, and warns there is a darker flipside.