احصل على أفضل محتوى EcoWatch يتم تسليمه مباشرة إلى بريدك الإلكتروني عن طريق الاشتراك في النشرة الإخبارية لدينا!
Author Adam Welz discusses the importance of fighting to survive climate breakdown and protect endangered species in a world that has been damaged by human activity. EcoWatch, which was established in 2005 in Ohio, is a digital platform that focuses on sharing high-quality, science-driven articles about environmental problems, their root causes, and potential solutions.
In The End of Eden, Adam Welz presents a profound look at the impact of human activity on our planet. By delving into the scientific background of Earth, Welz sheds light on the ways in which species are being drastically changed or lost globally, often without widespread recognition.
In the introduction of the book, Welz describes how humans have been conducting a risky experiment on Earth, which he refers to as a damaged paradise.
In his writing, Welz discusses various locations he has visited or studied in depth, such as the Mojave Desert, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, the Galapagos Islands, New Jersey's Pine Barrens, and areas near his residence in Cape Town, South Africa.
Welz focuses on the impact of microclimates, highlighting that these small-scale ecological changes are just as important as larger natural disasters. He delves into the scientific aspects of phenomena such as thermal heat and CO2, showing how events like plagues, extreme weather, and migration have disrupted the delicate balance of Earth's ecosystems and affected species like the white-throated woodrat, honeycreepers in Hawaii, and land tortoises.
However, Welz also observes positive changes in response to climate change. He notes that some species are starting to inhabit habitats, regions, and communities that they have not previously occupied. The shifting climate is disrupting natural ecosystems and leading to the emergence of new species combinations and ecosystems in various locations.
EcoWatch interviewed Welz from his residence in South Africa, where he is currently writing a book on the past and future of nature conservation.
The book contains a wealth of in-depth research. What difficulties did you face in compiling and organizing all of this information?
I am always collecting stories and pieces of information, storing them for later use. While the book could have been much longer, I chose the stories that resonated with me the most, ones that I felt best conveyed the phenomena I am exploring.
What is being referred to here? What could be the main idea or message of The End of Eden?
The issue addressed in this book is that most media coverage of climate breakdown focuses on its impact on humans, neglecting the millions of other species that coexist with us on Earth. The author highlights specific species, shares their stories, and portrays them as characters to help readers better understand the situation. By gaining insight into the reasons behind these species' struggles, readers can hopefully recognize that similar challenges are faced by species all around the world.
Do you think that the eight chapters discuss the main factors that contribute to climate change?
It is difficult to definitively say that, but I would describe these as themes that I found to be logical. Each chapter delves into a specific phenomenon and seeks to understand and clarify it through various examples from different species. For instance, there is a chapter that discusses the concept of fertile air, which pertains to the rising levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere leading to the transformation of savannas into forest-like areas in many regions worldwide. This idea of CO2 fertilization is not commonly considered by many people.
Can you discuss the research you conducted on Key deer in Key West as an illustration of the work you have done?
The Key deer have evolved into adorable miniature deer, but they rely heavily on freshwater sources in the small coral islands of the Keys. However, as sea levels rise, these freshwater sources are becoming increasingly salty. Additionally, with more intense hurricanes and storm surges, the Key deer are facing extinction. Some estimates suggest that by the time before 2100, the Florida Keys may no longer have suitable habitat for the Key deer. This situation highlights how many species are on the brink of extinction.
I aim to show in some of these stories how even small changes in temperature or season length can have significant impacts on species, ecosystems, and large areas. It is important to recognize the effects of these changes.
After the Dunns Road fire in 2020, you went to see the aftermath in Kosciuszko National Park. The sight of countless dead trees covering the entire landscape, with the forest appearing brown and black from the burnt wood and charcoal, left you in shock. The smell of ash and burned oil permeated the air, making it the most extensively burned place you had ever seen. How did this experience affect you?
I have witnessed many fires in my lifetime and have become accustomed to them. In my book, I mention that fires do not frighten me as they are a natural occurrence in many ecosystems. However, I was taken aback by the extent of destruction I witnessed. The area I saw had been completely scorched, with the forest floor stripped bare. The fire had been intense enough to burn through all organic material, leaving only lifeless sand beneath the charred trees.
When a fire occurs in a forest, it can completely destroy the entire ecosystem and change it into a different type of landscape, such as a scrubland or grassland. This transformation can happen very quickly, causing a significant shift in the ecosystem. Witnessing this change in Australia made me feel like I was seeing a preview of what the future holds. It showed me that we are heading towards a completely new and different environment.
Personally, you own a fish tank containing endangered catfish from Peru. Although it may seem insignificant, how does this contribute positively?
Illegal gold mining in Peru has caused a significant loss of river habitats for both of these species. Only a small number of people globally are responsible for keeping these fish alive. Conservation efforts extend beyond just large-scale projects aimed at saving big animals like rhinos from extinction.
Adam Welz, the author, gestures towards his fish tank containing rare catfish species from Peru.
Certain research in the book indicates significant and permanent changes in species. How can individuals prevent feeling anxious about this type of psychological climate change?
Some people have told me they are hesitant to read my book because they fear it may make them feel depressed. I understand that feeling, as sometimes my writing reflects the difficult realities of life. It's important to acknowledge these issues rather than ignore them, and it's okay if confronting them leaves a lasting impact. It may be challenging, but it's part of facing the truth.
There are many challenges in addressing climate change and the extinction crisis, but the biggest obstacle is the strong political opposition to solutions. Those who profit from fossil fuels and ecosystem destruction are resistant to change, making it necessary for advocates to fight for meaningful action. Change will only come through active efforts, as simply having the right ideas is not enough to solve these pressing issues.
Check out this post on Instagram from Adam Welz.
قم بالتسجيل لتلقي التحديثات الخاصة من خلال النشرة الإخبارية اليومية لدينا!
When you register, you are agreeing to follow the rules and guidelines set out in the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You are also giving permission to EcoWatch Media Group to send you electronic messages, such as marketing materials, ads, and sponsored content.
Click on the "Read More" button to receive additional information. Sign up for our daily newsletter
When you create an account, you are agreeing to follow the rules and guidelines set out in the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You are also giving permission to receive emails and other electronic messages from EcoWatch Media Group, which might include ads, promotional offers, and sponsored content
المنشورات الحديثة
احصل على أفضل محتوى EcoWatch يتم تسليمه مباشرة إلى بريدك الإلكتروني عن طريق الاشتراك في النشرة الإخبارية لدينا.
المتخصصين الذين يعملون على تحسين صحة الكوكب و
