Photograph from Reuters Pictures

Peter Scott Debate
Animals vs People
21 October 08, 19.00-21.00
Organised by Wildscreen
Wills Memorial Building, Queen's Road, Bristol

This event is free of charge, but places must be booked in advance. To book, please email: info@wildscreen.org.uk

The Peter Scott Debate is the Wildscreen Festival's prestigious keynote event, open to the public as well as festival delegates. Animals vs People looks at the complex issues surrounding the twin objectives of protecting both human and biological diversity. It will consider the importance of finding ways of establishing partnerships between conservationists and local people, the problems that arise when such partnerships fail, and ask whether or not there are inherent conflicts of interest between the goals of biodiversity and cultural diversity. 

Valmik Thapar (India), outspoken tiger conservationist and Will Travers (UK), CEO of the Born Free Foundation, argue for the animals; Professor Bill Adams (UK), Cambridge University, and Mary Mavanza (Tanzania ) of the Jane Goodall Institute argue for the people. The debate will be chaired by Dr Cristian Samper, Director of the Smithsonian Institution.