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Life on earth is dynamic but constant, predictable, yet unpredictable. It’s these shifting dynamics that scientists and citizens alike have peaked their curiosity for centuries. Tonight, we hear from three experts who show how we engage with life on our changing planet. Proceed with caution though, if you cannot adapt, you may be left behind.
Birdwatchers, birds and big ships
Citizen scientists can have a big impact. Sometimes major development and the environment clash and we rely on strong laws to protect nature in the face of big money. How do these cases play out? What is the role of the individual? We can learn lessons for the future from instances where the economy and the environment work together for the common good.
Plants take the temperature!
Rooted to the spot, plants can’t go home and turn up the heating when it gets chilly or move out of the sun when it gets hot. Plants are able to detect changes of 1ºC, and climate-change has already altered their behaviour. How do they do this? Do plants think? We don’t know all the answers, but we can share some of our latest results and discuss what makes your garden grow.
Why people need nature (and not the other way around)
Very often the protection of our environment is seen as too costly, a barrier to competitiveness and mired in a labyrinth of red tape. Political priorities to cut consumer costs over more sustainable practices only hasten ecological damage. If humanity is to sustain the natural systems that support our lives, then we need new economic ideas, and fast.
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