The Youtuber and science journalist Jacob Beautemps, born in Essen in 1993, starts with a format on the ARD: Science for Future is intended to deal with the major challenges of our time, from plastic recycling to securing our food supply. To this end, Beautemps sometimes goes on an expedition to see plastic-eating worms.
SZ: The first three episodes of your new show are about the climate, plastic waste and food security. Some citizens are worried about other things: the war in Ukraine, rising prices…
Jacob Beautemps: Political conflicts are of course central to humanity. But when it comes to issues such as the climate crisis, population growth, plastic in ecosystems and food security, it is ultimately about everyone’s survival. That’s why we should start acting now.
Should the show focus on solutions?
So far I’ve mainly worked on YouTube – and noticed that the viewers are frustrated when there is only talk of problems. Looking for solutions can get the debates moving. There are countless new technical possibilities out there, for example enzymatic recycling. A researcher explained to me that you can use it to break down plastic into its basic building blocks.
What distinguishes yours from other knowledge programs?
I would describe myself as a technology and science nerd. On my YouTube channel “Breaking Lab” I see what’s out there that has the potential to change the world. It may be naïve to dare to take a positive view. But maybe that is exactly what is needed: the focus on the constructive.
What are you doing differently now than on YouTube?
The difference to our documentary series is definitely the scope of the format. We have benefited enormously from SWR’s experience, especially in terms of design and storytelling, and were able to approach the facts and issues from a completely different perspective. It was also a great experience to break out of the usual studio setting and look for solutions together with experts on site.
Do people still listen to the topic of climate catastrophe?
I have the feeling that the significance of the changes is now clear to many. And if I only emphasize the problems, I get the mirrored message from the community: “We can’t hear it anymore”. Many seem to feel powerless – that’s why I want to talk about possible ways out and adaptation strategies.
The program name is reminiscent of “Scientists for Future” or “Fridays for Future” – is the closeness to activist groups in the title intentional?
If you look at the facts, you quickly come to the conclusion: we should live more sustainably, that is also the appeal of our show, so there may be an intersection with activism. In terms of climate protection – but it’s also just great to go for a walk in an environment that isn’t littered.
Science for Future, in the ARD media library, from August 6, Saturdays, at 4 p.m. in the first.