This week in science: Recycling innovation, scrolling dangers and the inside of Mars

By Regina G. Barber,

Emily Kwong

Published September 4, 2025 at 5:50 PM EDT

NPR's Emily Kwong and Regina Barber of Short Wave talk about an innovation in plastic recycling, the link between smartphones and hemorrhoids and what Mars' structure and ice cream have in common.

Regina G. Barber

Regina G. Barber is Short Wave's Scientist in Residence. She contributes original reporting on STEM and guest hosts the show.

Emily Kwong

Emily Kwong (she/her) is the reporter for NPR's daily science podcast, Short Wave. The podcast explores new discoveries, everyday mysteries and the science behind the headlines — all in about 10 minutes, Monday through Friday.

See stories by Emily Kwong

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