The video covers a range of issues relevant to biodiversity issues, beginning with global biodiversity challenges such as climate change and biofuels. In particular, Kathy Willis considers knowledge gaps for mapping biodiversity in the context of ecosystem services given the reality of resource extraction.

The presenters discuss how Earth’s biodiversity is undergoing dramatic change, with species disappearing at an unprecedented rate. Various factors are causing habitat destruction as demand for biofuels and other resources is fueled by growing populations and increasing prosperity.

The video covers how new technologies are allowing researchers to map and monitor ecologically important habitat. In particular the video shows how data from satellites and other technology is helping organizations and corporations to minimize impacts of industrial activities. Researchers also aim to use social technologies such as smartphone apps and crowd sourcing to encourage public participation in biodiversity conservation.

The video was live-streamed February 20, 2014. Speakers include:

• Professor Kathy Willis, Co-Director, Oxford Martin Programme on Resource Stewardship and Director of Science, Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew
• Dr Peter Long, James Martin Fellow, Biodiversity Institute, Oxford Martin School (Biodiversity Professionals Member)
• Dr Timos Papadopoulos, James Martin Fellow, Biodiversity Institute, Oxford Martin School

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