Intelligence Squared Archive: The Allure of Abandoned Places, with Cal Flyn
Sep 22, 2024
Cal Flyn, an award-winning author celebrated for her book 'Islands of Abandonment,' joins broadcaster Helen Czerski to explore the beauty of deserted landscapes. They discuss how nature beautifully reclaims abandoned places like Chernobyl and Detroit, revealing unexpected biodiversity. Flyn shares insights on balancing land conservation with indigenous rights, while also reflecting on her research in Tanzania's ecosystems amidst climate change. This conversation highlights the intricate relationship between human impact, ecological recovery, and the moral value of all species.
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Bings' Biodiversity
- The Bings in West Lothian, Scotland, are shale heaps from 19th-century mining.
- These seemingly barren landscapes have become surprisingly biodiverse, demonstrating nature's ability to reclaim and transform even industrial wastelands.
Beyond Aesthetics
- Recolonization of abandoned places is not always aesthetically pleasing, often appearing 'grotty'.
- However, these uncontrolled spaces offer valuable habitats, especially for invertebrates, highlighting the difference between pretty and ecologically healthy.
Chernobyl's Return
- Chernobyl, despite the 1986 disaster, has seen nature return, including wolves and bears.
- This demonstrates nature's resilience, even in the face of radiation, offering a complex view of human impact and natural recovery.
