TED Tech

What Earth in 2125 could look like | Iseult Gillespie

5 snips
Jan 16, 2026
Iseult Gillespie, creator of an inspiring TED-Ed lesson, presents a vision of Earth in 2125, sparking hope for sustainable futures. She explores a solar punk transformation of Los Angeles with solar farms and electric bikes. In Lagos, wetlands and mangroves become pivotal in coastal restoration and energy. São Paulo reimagines abandoned industries into eco-friendly housing, powered by solar energy. Gillespie connects these ideas to real-world projects, proving that a vibrant, sustainable future is not just a dream.
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INSIGHT

Solarpunk As A Practical Vision

  • Solar Punk imagines futures where nature and technology collaborate to create equitable systems.
  • These visions show sustainable, livable cities built from tools we already have.
ANECDOTE

LA Replaces Cars With Community Transit

  • Los Angeles shifts from car dependence to free electric bikes, buses, and trains paid via community contributions.
  • High-rise water-efficient farms and repurposed parking spaces supply local produce and portable farms serve residents.
ANECDOTE

Lagos Restores Coasts And Powers The City

  • Lagos restores wetlands and uses pipes with turbines to convert water flow into electricity for the city.
  • Mangrove stewardship supports biodiversity and creates economic uses like dyes, pharmaceuticals, and natural pesticides.
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