Chapter 1: Re-Creating Nature

In this first chapter, readers are given an abbreviated overview of the Biosphere 2 project, which was an experiment undertaken in the early 90's to investigate whether humans could create a closed ecosystem that functioned just as well as the one naturally created by our planet's system of checks and balances. This was an exciting project, because it was the first of its kind, and was meant to pave the way for humanity's first extra-terrestrial colonies. 

Sala goes on to describe the basics of experimentation and scientific advances, as well as the effect that humans have had on the species that exist on our planet through artificial selection and habitat destruction. The main point of the chapter is to underscore the fact that humans know very little about the planet that sustains us, and have a dangerous unawareness that once our natural ecosystems fail, we have a very slim chance of survival.

reading and Discussion Questions

Answer the following questions in the comments section below after you've finished reading the chapter:

1. What was the main research goal of the Biosphere 2 project and how long did the project last?
2. What was the major problem that led to the end of the Biosphere 2 project?
3. ​Just 6 of the 25 species introduced in the Biosphere 2 project survived the experiment after two years. This rate of extinction is quite high; how does it compare to the current species extinction rate worldwide? (Link: Extinction Over Time)​
4. What is your main takeaway from this chapter? What was your favorite point made by the author?

Activities

1. Venture out into the garden or any outdoor space, and take a moment to sit and soak in the nature around you. Notice the plants, animals, insects, and humans present. Describe the setting in writing, concentrating on the interaction of civilization and the natural world. What evidence do you see of nature? What evidence do you see of human changes to the ecosystem?
2. All landscapes across the planet change over time due to human population increases and climate change, which affect all aspects of our ecosystems. Using the Google Earth program for desktop, pick the area where you live and situate the eye altitude so that it is at about 75 feet. Click the button towards the top left of the screen that says 'Show historical imagery', and then move the slider to view historical data for the area. Notice how the landscape, including tree coverage and development, changes over time.

Further Research and REading

Wikipedia: Biosphere 2

Extinction Over Time