I am an outdoorsman, podcaster and speaker. I talk and write about the natural environment, biodiversity, conservation, hunting and fishing, rewilding and more. I am particularly interested in wildlife and human-wildlife interactions. I enjoy reading scientific papers on those subjects as much as being outdoors weathering the elements and getting first-hand experiences.
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Novel Ecosystems and Nature-Based Solutions
Published 11 months ago • 3 min read
Tommy's Outdoors
Conservation and Science
Welcome to the latest edition of the Conservation and Science newsletter. We are back in the business of conversations with world-class scientists! This week, we're diving deep into the fascinating world of novel ecosystems with Dr. Marcus Collier. In this episode, you will find out what they are and what role they play for the future of conservation and biodiversity. But that's not all! Starting this week, you'll be getting podcast episodes every week through the new "Conservation and Science Replay" series. Plus, I'm inviting you to join the membership program on Buy Me a Coffee, where your support can unlock exclusive benefits and help shape the future of the podcast. More details on these initiatives are waiting for you below.
Enjoy this week’s newsletter and podcast episode!
Novel Ecosystems and Nature-Based Solutions
Are humans part of nature or separate from it? How do we define native species, and should we always strive to eradicate invasive ones? Can urban green spaces play a role in addressing climate change and biodiversity loss? And what is the Anthropocene anyway? These are only some of the questions I discussed with Dr. Marcus Collier, an Associate Professor of Sustainability Science at Trinity College Dublin. His expertise in nature-based solutions gives us a new perspective on answering these complex questions and a fresh approach to environmental issues.
In this episode, we talk about the fascinating world of novel ecosystems. We explore the complex relationship between humans and nature while challenging traditional notions of ecosystem restoration and conservation. I asked Marcus to clarify the concept of the Anthropocene and its implications for our understanding of the human impact on the environment. We also didn’t shy away from the controversies surrounding invasive species and ecological restoration practices. Marcus shares his insights on how our perception of time and history influences our approach to ecosystem management and highlights the challenges of defining a "natural" state in an ever-changing world.
Then our conversation shifts to cultural landscapes and urban environments, highlighting the importance of nature-based solutions in cities. Marcus emphasises the benefits of urban greening initiatives, from improved air quality to enhanced mental health, while acknowledging potential drawbacks like gentrification. He advocates for a multifaceted approach to environmental challenges, emphasising the need for both technological and nature-based solutions for issues such as water quality and climate change.
As the Conservation and Science community continues to grow, with new listeners joining every week, I'm excited to announce a Conservation and Science Replay series. While we maintain a fortnightly schedule for new episodes, I've decided to use the other weeks to rebroadcast some of the best content from the past year.
This "greatest hits" series will serve a double purpose. For my new listeners, it's an opportunity to catch up on some of the most impactful and evergreen episodes you might have missed. These are discussions that remain as relevant today as when they were first aired. For loyal long-time listeners, it's a chance to revisit your favourite moments or perhaps catch something you missed the first time around. As a result, you can now enjoy weekly content, with new episodes continuing on a regular fortnightly schedule.
As we embark on this journey through last year’s episodes, I'd love to hear from you. If you have a favourite episode that you believe deserves a spot in the replay series, please reply to this email and let me know. Your input will help shape this series and ensure I’m rebroadcasting the content that resonates with our community the most.
Support The Mission: Join the Conservation and Science Membership
I am grateful for your continuous support of the Conservation and Science podcast. Your "coffees" through Buy Me a Coffee have been instrumental in keeping this show going, especially considering that I’m editing those episodes at the crack of dawn each day. I'm delighted to announce that I now have a membership program on Buy Me a Coffee, offering you even more ways to engage with me and our community.
By becoming a member, you'll unlock exclusive benefits such as behind-the-scenes updates, discounted or free access to events, and free access to the premium episode series. Your membership not only supports the podcast but also helps me to create a community of conservation and science enthusiasts. Whether you choose a monthly or annual plan, your contribution will make a significant impact. Join the growing family of supporters and help shape the future of the Conservation and Science podcast!
Support My Work!
Join the wonderful group of people who have already donated. Simply buy me a coffee!
I am an outdoorsman, podcaster and speaker. I talk and write about the natural environment, biodiversity, conservation, hunting and fishing, rewilding and more. I am particularly interested in wildlife and human-wildlife interactions. I enjoy reading scientific papers on those subjects as much as being outdoors weathering the elements and getting first-hand experiences.
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