Does Extinction Matter? The Environmental Consequences of Declining Biodiversity - CAST Virtual Program
No feature of Earth is more extraordinary than its Biosphere: that veneer of organic matter that covers Earth, making it verdant, resilient and habitable. However, what’s truly extraordinary about the Biosphere is not its mass, age, and biogeochemical power, but the staggering diversity of life forms it contains. Currently, biodiversity is declining in every ecosystem on Earth. Of the many global environmental changes we face today, none are as massive, complex, fast-paced, and difficult–if not impossible–to reverse than declining biodiversity. Putting aside the tragedy and moral crises associated with extinction, we can ask, from a scientific, utilitarian, and objective perspective: does extinction truly matter? In this class, Professor Naeem will consider origination and extinction throughout Earth’s history, and the current state of biodiversity. He will explore how life governs local and global environmental conditions and review the recent scientific research that has demonstrated the critical roles biodiversity plays in governing ecosystem functions. We will then take a look at what can and is being done to stop extinction–and whether or not we can prevent a possible global collapse of Earth’s environment if extinction is allowed to go unchecked. Provided by the CAST Senior Center, our Virtual Programs provide an endless variety of interesting subjects. Our Virtual Programs take us across the country, experiencing and learning about places and people which we wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to experience. Scheduled every Tuesday afternoon at 1pm at the CAST Senior Center, our Virtual Programs are free and open to the public. There are no membership dues, and everyone is welcome to attend. Programming is provided by CuriousityU.com and other online providers. Check out our virtual program schedule every month and join us! We look forward to seeing you!
Date and Time
Tuesday Jul 9, 2024
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM CDT
Tuesday, July 9, 2024
1pm
Location
CAST Senior Center
600 North German Street
Room 112
New Ulm, MN 56073
Fees/Admission
Free
Contact Information
507-354-3212
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