How Do They Do It?

Programme Overview

Walls/Skydiving Suits/Surstromming is a distinctive Quest episode that weaves together three seemingly unrelated subjects into a single, thought‑provoking narrative. The programme investigates the innovative use of a hemp‑based concrete blend to turn unwanted weeds into sturdy building walls, explores the aerodynamic principles behind modern skydiving suits that enable controlled flight, and delves into the traditional Swedish culinary practice of producing the fermented fish delicacy known as surströmming.

What to Expect

The first segment follows a sustainable‑construction project where agricultural weeds are harvested and combined with hemp fibres and cement to create a lightweight, environmentally friendly building material. Viewers are shown the step‑by‑step process, from weed collection to the final curing of the walls, highlighting the potential for reducing waste and carbon emissions in the construction industry. The second part shifts to the world of extreme sports, where experts demonstrate how specially designed skydiving suits manipulate airflow to give wearers a degree of lift and maneuverability, effectively allowing them to “fly” with greater control during free‑fall. Finally, the episode travels to Sweden to document the meticulous preparation of surströmming, explaining the fermentation technique, the cultural significance of the dish, and the sensory experience it offers.

Why Watch

UK audiences with an interest in innovative engineering, adventurous sports, and culinary heritage will find this episode especially engaging. It offers a rare combination of environmental ingenuity, cutting‑edge technology, and traditional food culture, all presented in Quest’s signature documentary style that balances informative narration with compelling visual storytelling. The programme’s diverse topics appeal to viewers who appreciate practical sustainability solutions, the thrill of human flight, and the richness of international gastronomy.

Production Insight

Produced for Quest, the episode maintains the channel’s reputation for delivering high‑quality factual content that educates and entertains. By linking the themes of transformation—whether turning weeds into walls, harnessing wind to glide, or fermenting fish into a celebrated delicacy—the programme underscores a broader narrative about human ingenuity and adaptation. It is an ideal addition to any British TV schedule seeking to inspire curiosity and showcase the breadth of modern documentary storytelling.