Calamitous weather events and warnings from scientists that the planet is warming faster than previously believed are causing alarm. Global environment editor, Jonathan Watts, describes the shifts needed to keep global warming to a maximum of 1.5C. Plus: David Conn on how football and gambling have become inseparable

A series of extreme weather events in 2018 again highlighted the urgency of making the social and political changes needed to keep the increase in global warming to a maximum of 1.5C (2.7F). In September this year, the UN will convene a dedicated climate summit where agreement will be sought for ambitious and far-reaching policies.

Joining India Rakusen today is the Guardian’s global environment editor, Jonathan Watts, to discuss the extent of the political change required if the world has any chance at all of keeping within the 1.5C upper limit on warming. He also explores some of the most effective ways individuals can join the battle against global warming: a vital, existential issue often drowned out by other news events.

Also today, the Guardian’s David Conn examines new research on the extent of the gambling industry’s hold over professional football in the UK – and its often dire consequences.