BSc Biological Sciences

In this hard-hitting and captivating Subject Spotlight, Dr Charlie Outhwaite presents: The time is now: ecology, biodiversity and extinction, a topical and pertinent look at the state of our world right now, and how we are at a critical point in time in terms of our declining environment. She begins by explaining what ecology is, thinks about the role of an ecologist in society, and outlines the fact that this is a critical turning point for our planet.

Charlie goes on to explain what biodiversity is, discusses some of the issues affecting biodiversity in the modern age, and the impact on humans as this biodiversity is lost. In episode 3, she thinks about day-to-day ecology, discusses the impact of the declining environment on species and communities, and describes important forms of activism and pivotal figures campaigning for change. Finally, Charlie introduces some brilliant digital ecology tools to help us all become citizen scientists, presents an interesting activity whilst using one of these tools, and rounds up the Spotlight with some powerful feedback.