Below is a short summary and detailed review of this video written by FutureFactual:
Chris Packham on Evolution, Biodiversity and Environmental Activism with New Scientist
Introduction and Context
In this interview, Chris Packham, the renowned conservationist and broadcaster, speaks to New Scientist about his impatience as an old punk and his refusal to stay silent when he sees problems facing wildlife. He describes the emotional fuel for his work as the scent of oak woodlands after rain, autumn dusks, and the first owl hoot of a tawny owl on a chilly evening. The conversation threads through his life story, from childhood insect collecting to a career built on intimate, rapid observation of nature and a hunger to learn from scientists.
Autism, Focus, and Kinship with the Natural World
Packham explains how his autism shaped his approach to nature. He says he has a highly detailed, obsessional focus that allows him to identify trees by sound and to immerse himself in small, intensely studied areas of natural history. He describes how binoculars transformed his relationship with wildlife, moving from keeping animals in jam jars to watching them in their habitats. He highlights the role of expert scientists as a living University of Natural Sciences at his disposal, enabling him to access the latest discoveries.
From Focus to Conservation Practice
He argues that focusing on specific aspects of nature can reduce anxiety and produce long lasting rewards. He shares examples from his garden, explaining how increasing natural features has attracted song thrushes, and how watching birds can provide a dopamine hit much like a shower moment, illustrating cross‑species happiness. The story underscores the scientific links between behavior and well being, and the joy of learning from wildlife.
Activism, Backlash, and the David versus Goliath Metaphor
The talk moves to activism and the courage required to push for change. Packham says our species is capable and adaptable but often resistant to changing minds and practices. He describes facing persecution, legal challenges, and death threats, and insists that winning means not giving up. He frames his work as David versus Goliath, emphasizing the importance of peaceful protest and the need to defend scientific evidence against political and corporate resistance. He cites global examples of environmental policy rollbacks and the need to accelerate action in renewables, energy transition, and biodiversity protection.
Advertising, Sponsorship, and the Fossil Fuel Industry
The interview covers the role of advertising and sponsorship in funding public life and how fossil fuel companies still sponsor sport and museums. Packham argues that such sponsorship normalizes harmful practices and misleads the public, using Shell's sponsorship of British cycling as a striking example. He calls for ending fossil fuel advertising and for public institutions to disentangle sponsorship from editorial control. He also critiques editorial influence on museum exhibitions and science institutions, urging stronger commitments to independent, credible science communication.
Policy and Political Economy: Urgency and Opportunity
Turning to policy, Packham stresses that climate and biodiversity crises demand rapid investment in renewables and a just transition away from fossil fuels. He identifies Ed Miliband as a strong advocate within government but notes obstacles in the Treasury that slow investment. He calls for wealth redistribution and educational empowerment for women as pathways to reduce consumption and population pressure, while warning against simplistic targets. He argues that climate justice is essential for meaningful action and highlights global inequities where poorer nations bear the brunt of climate breakdown while the wealthier world consumes disproportionately.
Evolution and the BBC Series: The Science of Change
The conversation shifts to Packham's BBC television series on evolution. He outlines the structure around major themes such as the evolution of intelligence, locomotion, and feeding, and mentions working with his poodles as a playful way to illustrate gait and movement. He emphasizes incorporating recent science beyond classic Mendel and Darwin, and his own curiosity about mass extinctions and life’s resilience. He discusses the idea that life persists through tenacity and the way evolution can respond quickly to changes in resources, with examples from his garden such as tits developing longer beaks due to garden feeding and migratory shifts in birds.
De-extinction, Colossal, and the Ethics of Genetic Resurrection
Packham weighs in on de-extinction projects like those pursued by Colossal, noting the scientific scrutiny and the large sums of money involved. He appreciates the potential for new knowledge but worries about misaligned incentives and the risk of diverting funds from protecting species currently in danger. He would be excited to see extinct animals reappear if it could help conserve natural ecosystems, but he cautions about the broader implications and the need for careful governance to balance blue sky science with biodiversity protection.
Hope, Equality, and a Practical Path Forward
Concluding, he frames a sustainable future as one of reduced consumption and greater equality, both globally and within nations. He advocates for a wealth tax, education for women, and stronger international support for climate finance to help poorer countries adapt. He rejects guilt or finger-wagging and instead emphasizes practical steps, such as accelerating renewable deployment, reducing the influence of fossil fuel lobbyists, and using advertising platforms to promote sustainable lifestyles rather than consumption. He closes with a reminder of life’s tenacity and a hopeful, evidence‑driven path forward that invites people to engage with science and conservation in everyday life.
