Why environmental conservation won't save nature | Lesley Hughes | TEDxSydney

Summary

In a passionate address, a biologist reflects on the urgent crisis of species extinction, emphasizing that traditional conservation methods are no longer viable in the face of rapid environmental change. Highlighting the story of the Bramble Cay melomys, the speaker argues for innovative interventions, such as relocating species to suitable habitats. They advocate for a shift from conservationism to a proactive environmentalism that embraces human creativity to save nature. The message is clear: collective action is essential not only for the preservation of biodiversity but also for humanity's own future.

Takeaways

• 🌍 Humans are causing species extinction at an unprecedented rate, highlighting the urgency of environmental action.
• 🐾 Conservation, traditionally defined as preserving the status quo, is no longer sufficient due to rapid environmental changes.
• 🌱 A shift in focus from conservation to innovation and intervention is necessary to address modern ecological challenges.
• 🏝️ The extinction of the Bramble Cay melomys serves as a warning about the consequences of inaction in the face of climate change.
• 📜 Current conservation laws may inhibit necessary actions, as they were designed with the assumption that ecosystems would remain stable.
• 🔥 Restoration projects need to adapt to future conditions rather than just reverting to past states, considering climate impacts.
• 🚫 The cane toad incident exemplifies the dangers of poorly planned species introductions and the need for careful management.
• 👥 Humans possess the creativity and adaptability to solve ecological problems, which should be harnessed rather than feared.
• 🌿 Proactive measures are essential to create sustainable habitats that support biodiversity, rather than solely focusing on protection.
• 💪 Embracing a forward-thinking environmentalism allows us to save not only nature but ultimately ourselves.

Q & A

What personal experiences shaped the speaker's connection to nature?

The speaker describes having a childhood filled with fascination for nature, collecting jars of grasshoppers, worms, and lizards, which led to a career as a biologist.

Why does the speaker reject the label of 'conservationist'?

The speaker believes that the term 'conservation' implies maintaining the status quo, which is no longer viable due to rapid environmental changes.

What is the significance of the Bramble Cay melomys in the context of conservation failures?

The Bramble Cay melomys was the first mammal to go extinct due to climate change, illustrating the consequences of inadequate protective measures despite awareness of its endangered status.

How does the speaker view traditional conservation efforts?

The speaker views them as outdated, emphasizing that many conservation practices are based on assumptions that ecosystems will remain stable, which is not the case anymore.

What does the speaker suggest as necessary actions for contemporary environmentalism?

The speaker advocates for proactive measures, such as relocating species to suitable habitats and creating new environments that can support diverse ecosystems.

What role do invasive species play in the speaker's argument?

Invasive species, such as the cane toad introduced in Australia, serve as examples of past ecological disasters that have created hesitation in taking necessary conservation actions.

What does the speaker mean by 'the first law of tinkering'?

This phrase, attributed to Aldo Leopold, emphasizes the importance of preserving all species as part of ecological integrity, which is still a valuable goal, albeit challenging under current conditions.

How does the speaker propose to balance human impact and environmental preservation?

The speaker argues that humans, as the most adaptable species, should harness creativity and risk-taking to develop innovative solutions for environmental preservation.

What future outlook does the speaker advocate for regarding environmentalism?

The speaker encourages a forward-looking approach that focuses on active engagement with environmental challenges rather than a nostalgic desire to return to an idealized past.

In what ways does the speaker believe we can save both nature and ourselves?

The speaker suggests that by successfully saving diverse ecosystems and adapting to changing conditions, we can also ensure the survival and well-being of humanity.