Lecture: “On the disappearance of species”

Reading at Villa 102

On February 27, we invite you to an exciting reading at Villa 102 that deals with one of the most pressing issues of our time: biodiversity and the protection of our environment.
The book “Vom Verschwinden der Arten” by Katrin Böhning-Gaese and Friederike Bauer offers a vivid overview of the current crisis in biodiversity and its far-reaching effects on humanity. The authors emphasize that despite the alarming extinction rates, which are up to a hundred times higher than the historical average, there is hope and measures can be taken to save biodiversity.
A key example in the book is the dramatic decline in vulture populations in India caused by the painkiller diclofenac. This situation illustrates how the disappearance of one species has major consequences for the entire ecosystem, including human health.

The authors call for a comprehensive social transformation to link species conservation and the fight against the climate crisis, which everyone can contribute to, in some cases by making just small changes. 
Overall, the book is not just a warning, but also a call to action, with constructive ideas and a clear focus on the urgency of tackling the challenges. It encourages people to take action and shows that it is possible to preserve biodiversity while safeguarding people's quality of life.
You can look forward to a inspiring talk and the opportunity to engage in conversation. After the reading, there will be space for questions and discussion.
We look forward to seeing you there and to an interesting and inspiring evening!

The authors:
Katrin Böhning-Gaese is Scientific Director of the Helmholtz Center for Environmental Research-UFZ and Professor at Goethe University Frankfurt. She has been researching the interactions between humans and nature and the importance of biodiversity for 30 years. In 2021, she was awarded the Environmental Prize of the German Federal Environmental Foundation for her cutting-edge research and her commitment in the field of political and social consulting.

Friederike Bauer is a journalist, author and speechwriter. She learned her craft at the FAZ, where she held various positions for 14 years. Afterwards she worked in development cooperation, including at KfW. She has been working as a freelancer since 2011. Her special focus is on foreign and development policy and sustainability. She is the author of various books, including a biography of Kofi Annan.

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If you have any questions, please contact veranstaltungen@kfw-stiftung.de

Images: ©KfW Stiftung, Salar Baygan