Chemistry of Nature

Over centuries Swiss cows foraged in the Swiss mountains – not only grass but also some bushes. Thereby, they opened the landscape. They were like (please excuse the term) lady shavers for the Alps. And ladies, you know what that means: Yes, open landscapes lovely to look at and a pleasure to explore them – not only for humans, but for a plenty of plants and other creatures that found a home in the flourishing grasslands created by cows. I will tell you, why Swiss cows refused to continue the lady shaver job and how Scottish cows finally preserved biodiversity.

Observing one of the largest freshwater reservoirs in Europe is of high importance for the taypayers around it, especially in times of strong climate change. Understanding the water quality, ecosystem changes and general dynamics of the lake helps to manage possible risks associated with the crucial availability of the lake`s freshwater. Unfortunately, constant recording of the lake is impossible for both us humans and the technology we created. This talk will explore some measures we can take to infer what is happening in the lake when we look away.

Tonight, your mission will be to design a revolutionary new molecule, but there are several things to consider. What are the elements for the job? How do we balance price and reactivity? Importantly, how can we recycle them? Join Liam—a real life “chemical explorer” from Australia—as he covers cutting edge techniques in making molecules (even those that catch fire in air!). Together we will explore the elements of the periodic table and get involved with a game show to test your knowledge on the cost of using these elements. A show that promises to be ele-mental!