PERREAULT Magazine SEPT | OCT 2016 | Page 71

From Darwin to Smith → Understanding the Drivers of Evolution and

Their Applications in the Congo Basin Rainforest

By Ashley Bardon

Perreault Magazine - 71 -

Kevin Njabo (left) and Thomas Smith (right) conducting research in the Congo Basin Rainforest

You may have guessed that the United States and China are the world’s top contributors in greenhouse gas emissions, but did you know scientists have predicted Africa will suffer the bulk of the consequences? Because of its unique geographical position, Africa is predicted to be the continent hardest hit by the effects of climate change in the coming decades, leading to devastating impacts on their vital natural resources. In order to keep up with the looming environmental threat and Africa’s rapid population growth, ecologists and environmentalists are working hard to protect biodiversity and implement solutions to diminish the impacts on the environment.

“We’ve never been in a situation more difficult than we are right now with climate change with respect to the threats to biodiversity." -Dr. Thomas Smith