How do you handle a global shitstorm and come out stronger on the other side? In 2014, Copenhagen Zoo became the center of an international media storm when Marius the giraffe was euthanised. As scientific director, Bengt Holst was in the eye of the storm and had to defend and explain the decision to the press and public. In this talk, you’ll get a unique insight into how strategic crisis communication can turn a critical situation into an advantage. Learn how values-based communication and a clear strategy can ensure credibility and strengthen an organization in stressful situations.

How do we prioritize between human needs and the demands of nature? We want to protect iconic species like tigers and elephants, but what about the wolf in Denmark or lesser known species? Conservation is far from simple and requires difficult choices. Bengt Holst provides a fascinating insight into the dilemmas of nature conservation and shows how we balance between protection and practical considerations. Learn how we can safeguard biodiversity without creating unnecessary conflicts between people and nature.

From a childhood fascination with earthworms to fieldwork with lion tamarins in Brazil, Bengt Holst’s passion for nature has taken him around the world. In this personal talk, he shares the experiences and realizations that have shaped his career in conservation and research. Through stories from the savannah, the rainforest and the Arctic, he shows how curiosity and persistence can make a difference. An inspiring talk about following your passion and letting the wondrous world of nature guide your path in life.

Zoos have evolved from mere menageries to important centers of conservation and research. But what role do they play today – and in the future? Drawing on 37 years of experience at Copenhagen Zoo, Bengt Holst gives a fascinating overview of how zoos can contribute to protecting endangered species and safeguarding biodiversity. Hear how scientific methods and international collaborations are making a difference and why zoos are still relevant in a time of increasing pressure on the world’s nature.

Every species, big and small, has a fascinating story to tell. Nature is uniquely diverse and evolution has created countless ways to survive. But what do an earthworm and a giraffe have in common? Bengt Holst takes you on an exciting journey through the wondrous world of animals and shows how species have adapted over millions of years. The lecture offers a new perspective on evolution, biodiversity and the intricate connections that link all life on Earth.

Biodiversity and climate are closely linked – we can’t solve one crisis without addressing the other. But how are they connected and what role does urban nature play in this equation? Bengt Holst takes you on a journey from the origins of life to today’s biodiversity crisis and offers concrete suggestions on how we can balance nature conservation and infrastructure. Learn why biodiversity is crucial for a sustainable future and how we can act before it’s too late.