Scientists are at the frontline of bad news about climate change, but a growing movement toward optimism is calling us to focus on (and learn from!) what’s working.

The Earth Optimism Summit is a gathering of pioneering scientists, thought leaders, practitioners, and civic visionaries. It explores the boldest experiments and most innovative community practices aimed at preserving biodiversity and addressing climate change. Organiser, Dr. Nancy Knowlton, explains why scientists have recognised that ‘doom and gloom’ won’t save the day.

Social scientists have known for a really long time, if you present people with big problems and no solutions they don’t get engaged, they become apathetic because they feel like there’s nothing they can do.

Plus, we meet Dr. Elise Bialylew. While studying medicine, Dr. Elise Bialylew became increasingly astounded by the growing body of science proving the health benefits of meditation. Now a devotee of the practice, she founded the global Mindful in May meditation movement.

About Our Guests

Dr. Nancy Knowlton is the Sant Chair for Marine Science at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. She wrote the book Citizens of the Sea and founded the Center for Marine Biodiversity and Conservation at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography of the University of California, San Diego. Knowlton has devoted her life to studying, celebrating, and striving to protect the multitude of life forms that call the sea home.

Dr. Elise Bialylew is the founder of the Mindful in May global meditation campaign, Director of the Mindful Project and Author of The Mindful Month.