The New Era of Environmental Science | Milton Muldrow | TEDxDover

Summary

The speaker discusses the rapidly changing world and the urgent need for environmental scientists to adapt. In this new era, scientists must communicate effectively with the public, address ethical concerns around biotechnology, and confront the challenges of climate change. The speaker emphasizes the importance of engaging everyone, avoiding political divides, and finding practical, inclusive solutions. Scientists must admit their own environmental impact while inspiring public support for bold goals, such as restoring ecosystems. The future of environmental science will also require strong data analysis, programming, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Takeaways

• 🌍 The world is rapidly changing with environmental crises like mass extinction and ecosystem collapse threatening our planet.
• 🧑‍🔬 Modern environmental scientists must be excellent communicators to effectively convey their findings to the public, who often fund their work.
• 🎯 The scientific community must set realistic goals for ecosystem preservation, balancing innovation with acceptance of Earth's changing conditions.
• 🧬 Biotechnology and genetics may play a key role in addressing environmental problems, but ethical questions and decisions need to be addressed.
• 📊 Data science and programming skills are becoming increasingly essential in environmental science, especially with the growing amount of data collected but under-analyzed.
• 👥 Scientists need to communicate better with the public and policymakers, especially to promote trust and behavioral changes needed for environmental solutions.
• 🌡 Climate change is real, and countries like China are leading in solar technology, while some still debate its validity.
• 🏫 There is a lack of public understanding about what it takes to become a scientist, with many unaware of the years of study and dedication involved.
• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Diversity and inclusivity in environmental science are both moral and practical imperatives for ensuring the field's continued relevance and success.
• 🚀 A Silicon Valley-like urgency and innovation are necessary in environmental science to tackle challenges like deforestation, reef destruction, and ecosystem decline.

Q & A

What are the key challenges facing environmental scientists today?

The key challenges include dealing with mass extinction, ecosystem collapse, and adapting to rapidly changing environmental conditions like ocean warming and acidification. Scientists must also focus on effective communication and policy advocacy to address these issues.

Why are communication skills essential for the new generation of environmental scientists?

Communication skills are essential because environmental scientists must convey their findings effectively to the public and policymakers, who often fund their research. Clear communication is crucial for influencing behavior and policy changes to tackle environmental problems.

What are some of the ethical dilemmas environmental scientists face regarding biotechnology?

Scientists must grapple with the ethics of using biotechnology, such as genetic engineering and cloning, to address environmental problems. For example, there is debate over whether humans should genetically engineer coral reefs or attempt species de-extinction, and how such technologies should be used responsibly.

How does the speaker suggest environmental scientists approach the concept of ecological baselines?

The speaker suggests that the scientific community must decide what ecological baselines are achievable in a changing world. Instead of striving for a 'glorious phantom ecosystem' that may no longer be possible, scientists may need to adjust expectations and goals based on the new environmental realities.

What is the significance of data analysis and programming skills in modern environmental science?

Data analysis and programming skills are increasingly important as large amounts of environmental data are collected but remain unanalyzed. Skills in quantitative analysis, programming, and artificial intelligence can help scientists find patterns in complex datasets and contribute to more impactful research.

What does the speaker say about the public's understanding of scientists and the scientific process?

The speaker notes that the public often lacks understanding of what it takes to become a scientist, including the many years of education and research required. There is also a misconception that scientists always agree on issues like climate change, when in reality, scientific progress involves debate and differing viewpoints.

Why does the speaker mention the decline of the Great Eastern Forest and coral reefs?

The decline of these ecosystems is used as an example of how the Earth is changing and how current conservation efforts are insufficient. These declines highlight the urgency of addressing environmental problems and the need for innovative solutions.

How does the speaker view the relationship between environmental science and politics?

The speaker emphasizes that environmental science is deeply connected to politics, as many solutions require policy changes. Scientists must engage with both the public and policymakers to ensure their work is understood and supported, and to influence policy decisions that can mitigate environmental damage.

What role does the speaker believe diversity plays in environmental science?

The speaker stresses that diversity is both a moral and practical necessity. Environmental science must engage people from all backgrounds to ensure that different perspectives are included and to maintain public support for scientific endeavors. Without broad engagement, the field risks losing relevance and public funding.

What comparison does the speaker make between environmental science and the Apollo missions?

The speaker draws a parallel between the drive to reach the moon during the Apollo missions and the need for a similar level of passion and determination to address environmental issues like saving the Amazon or coral reefs. Clear goals and public imagination are essential to inspire action.