S4E12: We Need To Talk About "De-Extinction"

About the Host: Chris Clarke is an environmental advocate and the knowledgeable host of the "90 Miles from Needles" podcast. He is committed to desert protection and conservation, bringing decades of experience and insights into environmental issues, policy discussions, and activism. Known for drawing attention to critical environmental concerns, including endangered species and responsible land use, Chris actively engages with audiences who care deeply about ecological preservation and advocacy.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of the "90 Miles from Needles" podcast, host Chris Clarke examines the much-talked-about claim of dire wolf de-extinction by a biotech firm. Chris navigates through the intricacies of this scientific breakthrough, unearthing the partial truths and sensationalism, while keeping a focus on broader environmental implications. Throughout the episode, Chris challenges the notion of de-extinct species fitting seamlessly into today's ecosystems. Drawing parallels between the dire wolves and other potential candidates for de-extinction, like the Shasta ground sloth, he discusses the feasibility and ethical considerations of such scientific pursuits. The conversation isn't just about biology; it encompasses the cultural and ecological dynamics that ground these animals in past and present narratives. Tying together scientific discourse and environmental activism, Chris highlights why preserving current ecosystems is critical for any species reintroduction success.

Key Takeaways:

The idea of de-extincting dire wolves is riddled with complexities, from scientific limitations to ecological impacts. Dire wolves possibly have physical adaptations ill-suited to surviving in today’s drastically altered ecosystems, calling into question their viability if brought back. De-extinction efforts are providing the antienvironmentalists in power with arguments to rescind environmental protection laws. The example of California condors serves as a reminder of the financial and ecological challenges faced in conservation and species restoration efforts. Chris advocates for a holistic approach to conservation that considers ecosystems' dynamic nature and the cultural knowledge animals pass down through generations.

Notable Quotes:

"Even if we grant Colossal Biosciences claims… the dire wolf is useless without its habitat."

"The ecosystem that held the species and the relationships changes… they become, to some extent, new ecosystems."

"What's the difference between that and releasing an invasive species into a habitat that doesn't have a niche for it?"

"As long as they're in Botanic gardens, we don't have to worry, right? But it's the relationships that are important here."

"If the process of theoretical de extinction is going to be used as an excuse to get our basic environmental laws…"

Resources:

Learn more about the podcast and support 90 Miles from Needles: https:/90milesfromneedles.com

Hank Green's response: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ar0zgedLyTw

Hank offers a correction: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8jGFT2rnL8Y

Ventana Wildlife Society Condor Status pge: https://www.ventanaws.org/status.html

The Bernie & AOC event in Los Angeles (All 5.5 hours!) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mU_GhbFH2Gw&t=11697s

Listen to the full episode for a comprehensive understanding of the topic discussed and stay tuned for more insightful discussions from "90 Miles from Needles." This episode serves as both an enlightening exploration of modern conservation challenges and a call to action for listen