Palazzo Esposizioni in Rome will host “Celebrating Diversity: A Journey Through Italy’s Ecosystems,” from November 27, 2024, to March 30, 2025. This major exhibition focuses on biodiversity and the concept of ‘One Health,’ which emphasizes the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the various forms of life on our planet.
Organized by the Assessorato alla Cultura di Roma Capitale and the Special Company Palaexpo, the exhibit is curated by Sapienza University of Rome in collaboration with the University of Padova and the National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC). This initiative plays a crucial role in furthering the goals of the United Nations’ Agenda 2030 for sustainable development amidst a current biodiversity crisis largely driven by human activity.
An Urgent Call to Action
In light of the ongoing challenges related to biodiversity loss and climate insecurity, this exhibition aims to foster awareness of the delicate balances within ecosystems and promote individual and collective responsibility for their preservation. Key themes include the value of biodiversity for human well-being, the major anthropogenic factors threatening it—such as climate change, invasive species, habitat fragmentation, and pollution—and the One Health approach as a means of harmonizing human, animal, and ecological health.
The exhibition is led by esteemed curators Isabella Saggio, a geneticist and professor at the Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Charles Darwin” at Sapienza University, and Fabrizio Rufo, a bioethicist and professor at the Department of Environmental Biology of the same university. They are supported by over two thousand researchers from the NBFC and a distinguished scientific committee including Nobel Laureate Giorgio Parisi and other renowned experts.
Exhibition Experience
“Celebrating Diversity” promises to be an immersive experience, combining scientific rigor with aesthetic appeal. Visitors will be taken on a physical and imaginative journey through Italy’s diverse ecosystems, highlighted by stunning visuals, original artifacts, videos, and reconstructions designed to engage and educate the public.
Notable experiences include interactive digital exhibits that help visitors reflect on humanity’s impact on the planet. Historical taxidermy specimens and rare items from across Italian scientific museums, including a great white shark and a monk seal, will enhance the understanding of biodiversity’s richness.
Art installations where science meets creativity will also be featured, as well as a section on genetic biodiversity reflecting Italy’s diverse historical and cultural lineage.
Cultural and Educational Programming
Accompanying the exhibition is a robust cultural program, including free entry lectures with experts discussing biodiversity’s critical role in ecosystem health. A film series titled “Who’s Afraid of Nature?” delves into the emotional responses to environmental changes, offering a reflective view through the lenses of iconic filmmakers.
The exhibition also includes specially designed educational programs for schools at all levels, promoting hands-on learning and engagement with the themes of biodiversity.
Exhibition Sections Overview
- The Kaleidoscope of Diversity: A 360° digital projection opening the journey into diversity.
- Terrestrial: A close-up of Italy’s flora and fauna, showcasing endangered and invasive species.
- Mediterranean: Highlighting fragile underwater ecosystems in need of protection.
- Urban: Exploring urban wildlife and the coexistence of species within cities.
- Genetic: Investigating the genetic diversity of Italians through historical narratives.
- Useful: Discussing the direct benefits of biodiversity for humanity, including food and medicine.
- Anthropic: Analyzing the human impact on the planet within the context of modern challenges.
- Protected: Showcasing ongoing efforts to safeguard biodiversity through collaboration.
This exhibition is a timely reminder of the importance of biodiversity and our role in nurturing and protecting it for future generations.
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