In the media
GGBC members are often featured in the media through their projects. Radio-inteviews, written interviews, short movies and social media is a great way to spread information about biodiversity and the threats against it to the general public. Browse below for everything from debate articles in international magazines to short movies about biodiversity.
In the press
Botanists identify 33 global 'dark spots' with thousands of unknown plants
1st October 2024
Alexandre Antonellii is interviewed by the Guardian newspaper on Kew Gardens study that has revealed thousands of undiscovered plant species in 33 dark sports in this article.
Research is a wonderful way to spend your life
30th September 2024
In this interview, plant ecologist Anne Bjorkman discusses her work investigating the effects of climate change on Arctic plants and ecosystems. She explains how fieldwork renews her perspective and is crucial for observing changes in nature. Her research aims to understand how plants adapt to climate change and how this affects larger ecosystems. Bjorkman also shares personal insights about her childhood, love of nature, and the challenges of balancing family life and research.
Many plant names are offensive: botanists will vote on whether to change them
16th July 2024
Alexandre Antonelli is interviewed as the International Botanical Congress got underway in Madrid to decide whether to rename dozens of plant species with scientific names containing racial slurs or honouring colonial figures. This marked the first official effort by taxonomists to address offensive species names. Supporters said the move aligns with broader societal efforts to confront historical injustices, while critics worry about potential confusion in scientific literature. The outcome of this vote could reshape botanical naming conventions for years to come.
Light pooling
June 2024
Tour operators are using bright lights to attract marine wildlife, ensuring close encounters with majestic species like whale sharks and manta rays. In this article Daire Carroll & Jessica Harvey-Carroll discuss this practice, known as ‘light pooling,’ and how it is outpacing both regulation and scientific research. As concerns grow about its potential impact on marine ecosystems, it’s crucial to assess the risks and take action to protect these species before lasting harm is done.
Managing wildlife in a changing environment: the case of the Baltic grey seal
27th March 2024
In this article Daire Carroll explored 120 years of ecological data, revealing how environmental degradation increases the risk of overhunting for the Baltic grey seal. Once nearly wiped out by hunting and pollution, this key predator has rebounded—but climate change and industrial fishing continue to reshape its future. What will happen under different hunting and climate scenarios?
The harbor seal population is declining - due to fish scarcity
9th February 2024
Karin Harding and Daire Carroll are interviewed about their work in the Baltic where historically harbor seals have been extensively hunted, but they have been protected for the last 50 to help the population recover, however hunting opened once more 2 years ago following demands from the fishing industry. Here they discuss this controversial topic.
