大象传媒

The premier of the state of New South Wales has declared a week-long state of emergency in response to the escalating bushfire threat. High temperatures and strong winds are forecast for the weekend and, since September, bushfires have killed 18 people and destroyed more than 1,200 homes across the states of NSW and Victoria. We hear from the mayor of one of the worst affected areas.

We'll also be hearing about how climate change and drought are affecting Zambia. And more and more people are taking part in "Veganuary," a month spent as a vegan. Cookery writer Jack Monroe, whose new book is called Veganish, has some tips on how to make it through.

(Picture: Firefighters in the Blue Mountains in New South Wales, Australia Credit: GETTY)