143. Astrid Vargas: Saving Species, Regenerating Landscapes, and Inspiring Action

Sue Stockdale interviews trailblazing conservationist Astrid Vargas in episode 143 of the Access to Inspiration podcast. Astrid shares her journey from childhood fascination with nature to leading efforts in bringing species like the Iberian lynx back from the brink of extinction. They discuss the importance of inspiration, systemic thinking, and community engagement in conservation, and delve into the 'four returns' model for landscape restoration developed by Common Land. Astrid emphasises the role of art, celebration, and collective action in fostering a sustainable future, offering insights and encouragement for anyone looking to make a positive impact on the planet.

About Astrid Vargas
Astrid Vargas is an award-winning conservation biologist with a track record in setting up, developing, leading, and monitoring environmental restoration programs. She has been a key figure in the recovery of three of the world’s most endangered species: the Iberian lynx in Spain, the black-footed ferret in North America, and the golden-crowned sifaka in Madagascar. Astrid believes in the power of art and inspiration to transform society. She is the founder of Inspiration 4 Action, an initiative that inspires communities to bring collective creativity into ecosystem restoration.

Find out more about Astrid Vargas and Inspiration 4 Action  via website: her book website : Instagram : Facebook

Time Stamps
01:22 Astrid's Early Inspirations and Influences
04:50 The Journey into Conservation Biology
06:42 The Iberian Lynx Recovery Program
11:35 The Four Returns Model for Landscape Restoration
21:44 Art, Celebration, and Community Engagement
29:26 Advice for Young Conservationists
31:14 The Joy of Conservation and Final Thoughts

Key Quotes

•  What if saving the planet could be joyful, creative and inspiring?
• There's a big need in endangered species programs to resolve conflict and to listen to each other and to find ways where we can all move forward together.
•  It's our own activity that's causing the demise of so many species.
• The beauty of nature makes me want to act. It gives me the amazing love to try to to do whatever we can so we don't lose it.
• We need a different thinking than the thinking that caused this problem.
• Our mind has to move to a restoration, regeneration thinking.

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Producer: Sue Stockdale  Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 


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