'The apparent chaos of the Anthropocene is turbocharging evolution itself': Plants are finding ways to survive and thrive in the climate crisis — if we let them
In this excerpt from "Despite it All," author Fred Pearce explores the ways plants are adapting and evolving in the face of climate change — and how we need to recognize this reality and foster its potential boost to biodiversity, rather than holding steadfast to our notions of what types of nature should and shouldn't be allowed to thrive.
The ongoing climate crisis is proving to be a catalyst for evolution, as plants and other organisms adapt and thrive in the face of environmental change, according to journalist Fred Pearce in his book "Despite it All" (Granta, 2026). Pearce's work, which has been shortlisted for the 2026 Royal Society Trivedi Science Book Prize, emphasizes the remarkable resilience of nature and the importance of embracing the natural processes of adaptation and innovation.
He argues that biodiversity assessments often overlook the value of invasive species and other "alien" organisms that may contribute to the overall health of ecosystems. In Britain, for example, official records show a decline in biodiversity, even though the total number of species is actually increasing when gains from new species are accounted for. This discrepancy highlights a fundamental issue in how we measure and value biodiversity.
Rather than trying to eradicate all invasive species, which may have beneficial ecological roles, Pearce suggests that we should recognize the value of novel ecosystems that include both native and non-native species. These ecosystems can interact with other species, pollinate, and contribute to the overall diversity and health of the environment.
Examples of "outlaw plants" that have shaped human civilization, such as crops and medicines, demonstrate the potential for non-native species to have positive impacts on both the environment and human well-being.
Environmental scientist Erle Ellis, who runs the Anthroecology Lab at the University of Maryland, argues that most of the planet has been heavily influenced by human activity for thousands of years, including areas often considered untouched, such as the Amazon. This perspective challenges the romantic notion of a pristine natural order and highlights the long history of human-nature interaction.
By embracing the potential of wastelands, abandoned fields, and other human-altered landscapes, we may uncover new opportunities for biodiversity and ecological resilience.
Written by urgent.news from Live Science's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
