Name: My wish: Build the Encyclopedia of Life
Uploaded: 2007-04-03T00:11:00Z
Duration: 22 min 4 s
Description: As E.O. Wilson accepts his 2007 TED Prize, he makes a plea on behalf of all creatures that we learn more about our biosphere -- and build a networked encyclopedia of all the world's knowledge about life.

As E.O. Wilson accepts his 2007 TED Prize, he makes a plea on behalf of all creatures that we learn more about our biosphere -- and build a networked encyclopedia of all the world's knowledge about life.

My wish: Build the Encyclopedia of Life

Humanity’s future hinges on understanding the vast, mostly invisible diversity of life, from tiny bacteria to the insects that underpin ecosystems. Despite discovering thousands of new species in recent decades, most life on Earth remains unknown and at risk, with nearly half of all species facing extinction by century’s end. Losing even the smallest organisms could collapse ecosystems and forfeit untold scientific knowledge and resources. Building a global, open encyclopedia of every species can inspire action and help preserve the biosphere.

The Fate Of Life Depends On The Smallest Creatures

E.O. Wilson's TED Prize wish

Explore the Encyclopedia of Life

TED Prize

biodiversity

biology

global issues

insects

nature

science

technology

ecology

TED Stage Talk

E.O. Wilson: My wish: Build the Encyclopedia of Life