Ecology, ethology, and evolution in the Anthropocene

Area of Science:

• Ecology, Ethology, and Evolution (the 3 E's)
• Environmental Science
• Climate Change Biology

Background:

• The 53rd Ontario Ecology, Ethology, and Evolution Colloquium (OE3C 2023) was held at Western University, Canada.
• The event brought together 160 participants, including researchers, graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review discussions from OE3C 2023 on surviving the Anthropocene.
• To synthesize future directions for biologists in Ecology, Ethology, and Evolution.
• To explore how biological sciences can address pressing planetary issues.

Main Methods:

• The colloquium featured three international keynote speakers, seventy talks, and fifty poster presentations.
• Discussions centered on the theme 'Surviving the Anthropocene: future steps for the 3 E's under pressing planetary issues'.
• A panel discussion with climate change specialists addressed topics like the Anthropocene, the Great Acceleration, and the Living Planet Index.

Main Results:

• Participants explored the role of biologists in confronting climate and environmental catastrophes.
• The event facilitated discussions on the contributions of the 3 E's to the survival of life on Earth.
• Key topics included the Anthropocene, planetary boundaries, and conservation strategies.

Conclusions:

• OE3C 2023 provided a platform for biologists to discuss critical environmental challenges.
• The colloquium highlighted the need for interdisciplinary approaches to address the Anthropocene.
• Future research and action in Ecology, Ethology, and Evolution are crucial for global sustainability.