Good Morning Britain weather presenter Laura Tobin: ‘To save the world, we need to love it more’

Our PM for the PM series asks people what they would do if they were prime minister for the afternoon. This week, it’s Good Morning Britain’s weather presenter Laura Tobin in the parliamentary hot seat.

Here’s what she would do for her few hours as prime minister.

If you suddenly found yourself in high office, what’s the first thing you’d want to fix?

Other than making chocolate bars as big and cheap as they were when I was a kid (bring back 10p Freddo bars!) the first and much more important thing I’d want to fix is the climate crisis. I’ve been a meteorologist for over 20 years, communicating our daily weather forecasts and answering the nation’s most pressing questions; things like will it be hot or cold? Do I need an umbrella? Can I put out the washing? But over the last five to 10 years, I’ve been reporting more and more on the extreme weather events increasing right around the globe, and the impact they have on people’s lives, landscapes and economies. Temperatures that were once impossible are now not only possible, but becoming increasingly likely. I would like to reduce our emissions so we can reach net zero as quickly as possible, with more renewable and green energy to help reduce the warming of our planet, which will in turn reduce extreme weather events.

What was the big political issue that you remember from your childhood?

Environmental issues have always struck a chord with me, even as a child. I remember using magnets on tin cans when I was a kid to decide if they were aluminium or steel, which helped to ensure that steel cans were sorted correctly for recycling. This is one of my first memories of caring about the environment.

What would your leadership style be?

Firm, fair and fun – making sure that everybody could share their opinions and ideas. I’m naturally very collaborative, so I’d encourage a team culture where people listen to one another, offer support and treat each other with respect. I’d also encourage everyone to work hard, stay focused and keep on top of their priorities – ideally with a good ‘to-do’ tick list (I do love a tick list!). Just as importantly, I believe hard work should be recognised and appreciated. A simple thank you, a treat or reward (like a Fizz Friday!) can go a long way.

Read more:

• Laura Tobin: ‘Most people have conditioned themselves not to think about climate change’
• Five ways David Attenborough changed the world
• Weather forecasts are more important than ever. Here’s the science behind them

You have a red telephone that can connect you with anyone. Who do you call and what do you tell them?

Well, the first person I would call for help advice would be my mum. It doesn’t matter how old you are; mums always seem to have the answer.

Who would you award a knighthood/damehood to?

For me the most deserving (and Queen Elizabeth II has already given him a knighthood) would be the incredible Sir David Attenborough for his continued dedication in communicating how incredible our planet and the animals on it are. He is so inspiring. I was lucky to be invited to a screening of his documentary A Gorilla Story earlier this year, and he sat just a few seats away from me.

What’s your big idea to save the world?

To save the world, I think we need to love it more – to stop and enjoy it. That would give us a greater desire
to save it. Our lives are extremely busy, but stopping for nature is so therapeutic – and there are so many things we can do to save the planet as an added benefit. Walking my daughter home from school is free – and it’s healthier for us. If we reduce our meat consumption, our food shop will be cheaper, and it will ease the burden on the environment. So many ideas for saving the planet can also save us money, which is crucial during the cost of living crisis. I think seeing the multi-benefits and the multi-wins is key.

How would you reach out to climate sceptics?

I think science goes a long way. Not simply arguing, but explaining in simple, accessible terms what’s happening and why. That way, we can share what the projections are and how we’re at the sliding doors moment for the future of our planet. And I think it’s also really important not to preach or point fingers. If I can persuade one person with the science, their actions can help to influence another person’s – and then this domino effect will continue.

If answering these questions has convinced you to stand for election, what’s your slogan?

No one can do everything, but everyone can do something!

Come Rain or Shine: The Fascinating Facts and Surprising Science Behind our Weather by Laura Tobin is out now (New River, £16.99).

You can buy it from the Big Issue shop on bookshop.org, which helps to support Big Issue and independent bookshops.

Do you have a story to tell or opinions to share about this? Get in touch and tell us more. 

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