"Reading Biodiversity"

In “Talking Biodiversity”, Season 5 Episode 7 of the podcast “A New Digital Responsibility”, Ben Jacob and Richard Flemmings talked to Rob Price about the ability of tech to truly make a difference to our biodiversity. Richard and Rob were then both inspired to look at some of the other published literature in this field, much of which shines a light on the essential need to get involved. Their joint article was published on the CDR website here on 23rd February, 2024.

Within the complex interplay of Earth's ecological systems, biodiversity operates as the foundational framework that shapes the intricate dynamics of life. In the midst of the ongoing discourse surrounding climate change and carbon emissions, five books emerge as significant academic contributions, not only decoding the mysteries of the natural world, but also promoting its conservation. As we delve into the rich ecological narratives of The Orchid Outlaw, Lost Rainforest of Great Britain, Silent Earth, Entangled Life, and Wild Fell, we find ourselves not merely consuming information, but actively participating in an ecological advocacy—an endeavour that compels us to become stewards of our shared terrestrial habitat.

Despite their distinctive approaches, shared themes arise that resonate on an individual level. With a long-standing appreciation for nature and landscapes that originated in our early years, we now find ourselves in professional capacities that position us at the forefront of efforts to shape human-nature interactions in a more sustainable and accountable manner.

1. The Orchid Outlaw by Ben Jacob:

Ben Jacob's The Orchid Outlaw does not only detail the exquisite allure of uncommon orchids but also delves into the intricate matrix of environmental legislation. As Jacob champions the protection of these botanical rarities, he uncovers a conflict between preservation efforts and the currently established legal systems. The orchids, delicate and elusive, find themselves ensnared in a network of regulations that frequently fail to ensure their survival. Jacob emerges as a champion, not merely for the orchids, but also for legal reform, as he confronts the harsh truth that the existing legal structure may not be a supportive ally in the crusade for biodiversity. 

The Orchid Outlaw transcends a botanical journey; it becomes a clarion call for environmental guardianship. Readers are provided with the uplifting viewpoint that individual efforts can effect change, and that rationality should be the guiding principle in interpreting legislation. The narrative then poses a critical question: Is it justifiable for someone dedicating substantial resources to such a noble cause to face potential legal consequences? Jacob's narrative adeptly traverses the maze of environmental law, urging readers to acknowledge the stark reality that current regulations may not sufficiently protect biodiversity.

The intricate interplay between the law and the orchids becomes a focal point, captivating readers not only with the allure of these rare blooms but also with the pressing necessity to reform legal structures for the preservation of Earth's vulnerable ecosystems. At the core of Jacob's narrative is a powerful exploration of the delicate balance between human-made regulations and the untamed beauty of nature. The reader is encouraged to wrestle with the task of formulating legislation that not only safeguards delicate ecosystems but also promotes their flourishing. The Orchid Outlaw, beyond its role as a fascinating study of rare flowers, serves as a reflection of the complex task of harmonizing human-imposed order with the unpredictable, chaotic dance of biodiversity.

2. Lost Rainforest of Great Britain by Guy Shrubsole:

In Lost Rainforest of Great Britain by Guy Shrubsole, the practice of charting historical landscapes intersects with ethical conundrums, crafting a narrative that surpasses traditional investigations. Shrubsole initiates a literary expedition that delves into the primeval rainforests of Britain, concurrently wrestling with the obligations of data gathering in an epoch of accelerating environmental transformations. The book unfolds as an adept examination of historical landscapes, highlighting the difficulties of striking a balance between nature conservation and information accessibility. Shrubsole evolves into a literary geographer, not only mapping extinct rainforests but also plotting the course towards responsible data utilisation. As readers navigate through the narrative, they are faced with profound inquiries about transparency, accountability, and the delicate balance necessary in the information age.

While Shrubsole expertly employs digital technology to generate previously unseen maps of potential rainforest locations, his examination extends beyond the physical act of mapping; it probes into the complex decisions surrounding information distribution. The reader is encouraged to ponder the consequences of revealing ecological marvels to a world eager for exploration; can we strike a balance between personal exploration of rare locations and protecting those sites from overexploitation? In a country where land is in high demand and ownership is concentrated in the hands of a few, we are prompted to question who bears the responsibility to ensure delicate ecosystems are conserved and given the chance to flourish. 

Lost Rainforest of Great Britain is not merely a historical excavation; it's a reflective meditation on the responsibilities that accompany unveiling nature's secrets. The delicate balance between exposing the splendour of ecosystems and ensuring their protection emerges as a central theme, resonating with readers as they traverse the landscapes of Shrubsole's narrative..

3. Silent Earth by Dave Goulson:

Silent Earth by Dave Goulson surpasses the function of a scientific document, metamorphosing into a poetic lament for the diminishing buzz of insect life. Goulson intertwines empirical observations, data, and an acute sense of urgency, crafting a narrative that extends beyond the mere dwindling of insect populations to become an urgent appeal for ecological accountability. The tension within the text is not solely in recording the silence, but also in navigating the delicate equilibrium between human intervention and allowing nature to follow its natural trajectory.

Goulson emerges as a guide through ecosystems teetering on the edge, impelling readers to grapple with the intricacies of conservation. Through an engaging and relatable narrative, readers are presented with a startling realisation of our limited knowledge on insect decline, and the necessity to stimulate action towards gaining more understanding. Silent Earth is a masterwork that employs data as a means for comprehension, underscoring the interdependence of all life forms. Confronted with insect decline, Goulson summons readers to not merely grieve the silence, but to engage actively in the rich tapestry of biodiversity.

4. Entangled Life by Merlin Sheldrake:

In Entangled Life by Merlin Sheldrake, the concealed realm of fungi is presented as a narrative that surpasses traditional scientific investigation. Sheldrake guides readers through a captivating exploration into a world where fungi are not merely organisms, but fundamental architects of life processes. The tension emerges as the narrative explores the potential applications of fungi, instigating a contemplation on the responsible utilization of nature's innovations. Entangled Life evolves into an insightful examination of the ethical considerations associated with the exploitation of fungi for human advantage, and the necessity to conserve these organisms within their natural habitats. Sheldrake's narrative repositions fungi from being disregarded entities to crucial participants in the concert of life, challenging readers to perceive these organisms not solely as resources but as essential contributors to the intricate balance of biodiversity.

Amidst Sheldrake's revelations about the concealed world beneath our feet, readers are encouraged to reflect on the ethical consequences of harnessing the potential of fungi. The narrative transports us to the mid-twentieth century, where the criminalisation of many mushrooms due to their psychedelic properties stifled further research into medicinal applications, leaving a substantial knowledge gap that researchers are only now beginning to bridge. Entangled Life becomes a voyage not just into the scientific marvels of the fungal kingdom, but also into the ethical considerations that should steer our interactions with these often-neglected organisms. Sheldrake's narrative evolves into a thought-stimulating exploration, urging readers to perceive fungi not merely as a resource to be exploited, but as integral components of the intricate web of biodiversity.

5. Wild Fell by Lee Schofield:

Wild Fell by Lee Schofield transcends a mere narrative set within the British countryside; it evolves into an examination of the complex interplay between humans and the untamed environment. Readers are immediately faced with the unfortunate reality that the last golden eagle residing in England perished due to the overexploitation of a critically significant region. The vital role of this apex predator in sustaining a thriving ecosystem becomes evident, underscoring the rationale for the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds to assume responsibility for all facets of landscape restoration. Through his storytelling, Schofield delves into landscapes where nature is not merely a setting but a fundamental entity. The tension emerges as human activity, even with the most benevolent intentions, impacts the landscapes we endeavor to protect. Wild Fell invites readers to not only learn about the wilderness but to actively engage in its conservation. The intricate impact of hilltop management (or mismanagement) on downstream populations is made apparent, and Schofield's narrative offers optimism for potential landscape management strategies in the UK, drawing upon vivid examples from other parts of Europe where nature is flourishing.

In the pages of Wild Fell, Schofield's exploration serves as a reflection of the intricate bond between humans and the wilderness. The reader is encouraged to navigate the landscapes of ethical considerations, pondering the delicate equilibrium between immersing in the wild and preserving its unspoiled beauty. As technology and nature intersect in the narrative, the book becomes a contemplation on the tension between the desire to connect with the wilderness and the obligation to protect its delicate ecosystems.

We see a clear intersection between Wildfell and the other books reviewed here, as Schofield guides us through a vivid account of the declining butterfly population on his parent's buddleia bush over the years – posing the question: is "the butterfly bush" teeming with life merely a rose-tinted memory, or is this decline an actual phenomenon??

Innovation in Eco-Technology: A Proposition for Biodiversity Augmentation

As we navigate these literary terrains, the role of technology prompts us to envisage a future where innovation acts as a pivotal driver for conservation. Sophisticated sensors, could surveil ecosystems, supplying real-time data for informed decision-making. Artificial intelligence algorithms could scrutinise extensive datasets, pinpointing patterns and potential hazards to biodiversity. Such technology is unquestionably within our grasp, but its distribution must extend to those who can utilise it effectively and make a significant impact. The convergence of literature and technology becomes a potent tool, not only in meticulously documenting the marvels of nature but also in actively participating in their conservation.

Visualise a world where digital platforms interconnect citizen scientists, researchers, and policymakers, establishing a collaborative network dedicated to biodiversity augmentation. Augmented reality applications could animate the pages of these books, enabling readers to immerse themselves in the depicted ecosystems and, consequently, fostering a deeper affiliation with the cause of conservation.

Expand Your Knowledge: Additional Literary Investigations

As these books unfold, they reveal insights into the diverse domains of biodiversity. For those keen to further probe the intricate interplay between humans and the natural world, additional literary resources are available. Immerse yourself in Richard Powers' The Overstory, a narrative that intertwines the lives of individuals and trees, emphasizing the profound linkages between humans and forests. Accompany Robert Macfarlane in Underland as he ventures into the concealed realms beneath our feet, unravelling the enigmas of subterranean ecosystems.

The literary expanse of biodiversity is extensive and continually growing. Michael Pollan's The Botany of Desire encourages readers to reevaluate the relationship between humans and plants, exploring how flora influence our desires and reciprocally, how we shape them. For those fascinated by the convergence of technology and ecology, Hugh Raffles' Insectopedia offers a unique perspective, scrutinizing the multifaceted relationships between insects and humans.

These additional literary gems broaden the discourse, inviting readers to enhance their comprehension of the complex web of life that encompasses our planet. Each book serves as a portal into a world where biodiversity is not simply a concept, but a vibrant, pulsating symphony.

Final Remarks: A Plea to Safeguard the Concert of Life

As we conclude this literary journey, the impact of these books reverberates beyond the confines of the pages, evolving into a unified call to action. The urgency to conserve biodiversity is not solely a scientific directive, but a narrative intricately interwoven into the tapestry of these stories. The nuanced interplay between humans and the natural world, brought to light by these authors, stands as a testament to our duty as custodians of the Earth.

In the face of environmental hurdles, technology emerges as both an instrument and a beacon of optimism. The proposed incorporation of innovative solutions into conservation strategies presents a future where our efforts to protect biodiversity are bolstered by the advancements of the digital era. Through literature and technology, we are not merely spectators of nature's concert; we become active contributors, each page turned and every technological innovation aiding in the preservation of Earth's biodiversity.

Let this article serve as a summons—a plea to protect the concert of life that resonates throughout every ecosystem. In the delicate dance of orchids, the ancient murmurings of rainforests, the silence of insects, the concealed domains of fungi, and the untamed landscapes of Britain, we discover not just stories but a shared narrative of our interconnected existence with the Earth. Let literature and technology unite in this endeavour, harmonising to shape a future where the concert of life continues to captivate generations yet unborn.

Note that this article was originally written by Richard and Rob, with occasional assistance from GenAI, and edited jointly over a number of iterations.