Shifting Baselines: Changing attitudes towards nature through the lens of Trinity's collections

A panel discussion for Green Week organised by the Library of Trinity College Dublin.

Please register here.

How has our understanding of nature changed over time and what have we come to accept as “normal”? This half-day event explores the concept of shifting baselines: the idea that each generation inherits a diminished view of biodiversity and ecological abundance without realising what has been lost.
Drawing on the extraordinary natural history holdings of the Library’s Fagel Collection specimens from the Herbarium of Botany, and contributions from Trinity Sustainability and other external experts, the event brings historical perspectives into dialogue with contemporary sustainability challenges.
Speakers:
Welcome address: Helen Shenton (Librarian and College Archivist, The Library of Trinity College Dublin)

Prof. Jane Stout (Vice President for Biodiversity and Climate Action, Trinity Sustainability) – Shifting Baselines
Dr Peter Moonlight (Assistant Professor, TCD Botany) & Joe Nankivell (Fagel Collection Project Manager, The Library of Trinity College Dublin) – In discussion on The Fagel Collection and History of Botany (Chair: Jane Stout)

Panel Discussion
Chair: Collie Ennis (Biodiversity Officer, Trinity Sustainability)
Panellists:
Dr Maria Long (Grassland Specialist, National Parks & Wildlife Service)
Paolo Viscardi (Keeper of Natural History, National Museum of Ireland)
Siobhan McDonald (Artist in Residence, TCD Natural Sciences)

Bringing together science, cultural heritage, policy and artistic perspectives, this event invites audiences to reflect on how we define environmental “normal”, and how recovering richer baselines might shape a more sustainable future.

This event is run in accordance with Trinity’s Dignity and Respect policy, and its commitment to nurturing a respectful and inclusive research culture.
Please indicate if you have any access requirements, such as ISL/English interpreting, so that we can facilitate you in attending this event. Contact: sean.adderley@tcd.ie