Lezing
The Evolution of Urban Ecosystems
- Matthijs Schouten
- Marco Roos
- Wouter Moerland
- Datum
- dinsdag 21 mei 2019
- Tijd
- Locatie
-
Van Steenis
Einsteinweg 2
2333 CC Leiden
We live in a century of rapid urbanisation. The United Nations forecasts that by the year 2025, 60% of the world’s population will be living in urban areas, compared to 29% in 1950. Not only people but also other species of animals and plants adjust to this evolutionarily novel urban environment, with a growing number of novel species as a result. This evolution is expected to continue, where cities are sometimes likened as evolutionary labs of climate change.
In this Triple E-lecture, Prof. Matthijs Schouten will give an inspiring account about the changing attitude between humans and nature and how we can further promote nature our urban environments.
The lecture will be held in the Van Steenis building on the 21st of May at 16:00h.
Excursion details
Afterwards you can experience some of the hidden jewels of urban ecology by joining the city safari lead by two connoisseurs of the natural treasures of Leiden: Marco Roos (Naturalis BC) and Wouter Moerland (urban ecologist, City of Leiden). Right after the safari there will be a diner where we continue the discussion.
About the speaker
Prof. Matthijs Schouten is an extraordinary professor Ecology and Philosophy of Nature Restoration at the University of Wageningen (the Netherlands) and Cork (Ireland) and is also employed at the State Forestry (SBB). Matthijs has been interested in the interaction between humans and their environment and the role that nature plays in human thought. Now, in the Anthropocene, we need to re-assess our attitude to nature and ask ourselves: are we owners, stewards or partners of nature?