Chris Packham wants you to be a scientist – and then forget the science
Nov 24, 2023
auto_awesome
Chris Packham, biologist and presenter, talks about the interconnectedness of species in their habitats, his childhood fascination with the Apollo space program, and the role of AI in conservation. He also discusses the upcoming COP28 conference and the importance of taking action to address environmental issues.
Conservation efforts should prioritize preserving habitats and understanding interconnectedness of species.
Individuals should engage in activism and demand action from governments to make a positive impact on the environment.
Deep dives
The Importance of Protecting Ecosystems
Biologist Chris Packham discusses the interconnectedness of species and habitats, emphasizing the need to protect entire ecosystems rather than focusing on individual species. He highlights the importance of understanding how species contribute to fully functional ecosystems and how conservation efforts should prioritize preserving habitats.
Taking Action to Address Climate Change
Chris Packham shares his concerns about the COP conferences on climate change, noting that while they provide a platform for discussion, many promises made in the past have not been honored. He emphasizes the need for citizens to demand action from their governments and engage in various forms of activism, whether signing petitions, organizing local campaigns, or participating in protests, to make a positive impact on the environment.
The Role of Fear and Optimism in Addressing Environmental Challenges
Chris Packham discusses the importance of acknowledging fear and anxiety about the state of the environment, but also emphasizes the need for optimism and positive action. He suggests that the media should present the truth about environmental issues while highlighting existing solutions and opportunities for change. He encourages individuals to be proactive, engage in environmental activism, and celebrate the capacity humans have to address and solve environmental problems.
The Use of AI in Environmental Conservation
While Chris Packham acknowledges the potential benefits of utilizing AI in scientific research and data collection for understanding the natural world, he expresses a personal preference for preserving the human connection to nature and promoting originality in artistic expression. He suggests that AI should be regulated and calls for a balance between technological advances and the preservation of human creativity and interpretation in the arts.
In this episode, we hear about Chris Packham’s guide to saving the planet. Think of the most iconic creature in the world. Now put that creature into its natural habitat, and imagine all the ways it connects with other parts of the sprawling web of life. You’re now thinking of nature as we should be thinking about it, according to the biologist and presenter – who has written the foreword for a new book called Habitats.
In this episode, we spoke to Chris about his top tips for making the most of nature, a close encounter with a baboon, and what he thinks about COP28. Chris even gives us a peak at some childhood memorabilia that reveals what he wanted to be before he became a biologist.