Join PSR WI and the UW-Madison Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies

When: Thursday, December 4 | 6:30-9:00 PM

Where: Science Hall, UW Madison, 550 N Park Street

Remembrance of Lost Species Event

An evening to reflect on extinct and endangered species and renew our commitment to protect all who remain.

WHat is REMEMBRANCE OF LOST SPECIES

Since 2011, communities around the world have gathered each year during the week of November 30 for Remembrance Day for Lost Species, a time to reflect on the species that have disappeared and to recommit ourselves to safeguarding the biodiversity we still share this planet with.

In Madison, we invite you to join us for an evening of reflection, education, and action. This event explores the interconnected impacts of land use, rewilding, and climate change on species survival. Together, we will remember what has been lost, understand the causes of global species decline, reflect on the environmental risks to the health of humans and species, and explore the ways we can create a more hopeful future.

WHY IT MATERS

According to the World Wildlife Fund’s Living Planet Report, vertebrate populations have declined by more than 50% since 1970.

The extinction crisis is not only about animals and plants; it’s about the future of Earth’s ecosystems, and our own survival.

Local and global action can help reverse this trend, and you can be part of it.

PLANNED aGENDA

6:30 PM – Refreshments and Networking

6:45 PM - Welcome

6:50 PM - Program

  • Paul Robbins PhD, Dean, UW Nelson Institute: Opening comments and context setting

  • TBA: Land use changes impact on the health of species, and prospects for improvement

  • Jon Pauli PhD, Professor of Wildlife Ecology. Rewilding; how to prevent and reverse loss of speciation

  • Jonathan Patz MD, MPH, Director and PI, Center for Health, Energy and Environmental Research (CHEER): Impact of climate change on the global environment and on the health of humans and all species

  • Claire Gervais MD, Co-President, Wisconsin Environmental Health Network (WEHN): Climate change and environmental risks to the health of people and animals in Wisconsin

  • Ann Behrman MD, Treasurer, Physicians for Social Responsibility Wisconsin: Actions underway to prevent environmental exposure to radiation

  • Dekila Chungyalpa, Director UW Loka Initiative: Ceremonial remembrance to honor lost species and reflect on our shared responsibility

  • Panel Q&A, led by Amy Schultz RN, President PSR WI

8:35 PM – Refreshments and Networking

This event is free and open to the public