(a species of owlet moth (Noctuid)) Some caterpillars, after they emerge from their egg, can increase their weight by 25,000 times.

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Environmental change

Since the beginning of time, the world has undergone radical changes. Over millions of years, supercontinents have split to create new continents, ice ages have come and gone and now the Earth is warming up. Investigate the Museum's work researching climate change, global extinction and our ever-expanding population.

  • A guide to global catastrophes
    A guide to global catastrophes

    Is it possible for a natural disaster to terrorise the whole planet? Is the force of a cataclysmic earthquake enough to rock the world? And what would happen if a giant asteroid hit Earth?

  • Lichens
    Lichens

    Explore the amazing diversity of lichens and find out why they are the canaries of the plant/fungal world.

  • The Ecologist
    The Ecologist (video)

    To coincide with its relaunch, join owner Zac Goldsmith to discover what motivated him to start The Ecologist magazine.

  • Corals in crisis
    Corals in crisis (video)

    Coral reefs are beautiful and diverse but fragile ecosystems. Hear about the risks they face and some projects to save them.

  • Are we eating away the rainforest?
    Are we eating away the rainforest? (video)

    Food production is big business, but is it having a negative impact on our environment? And if so, what can we do about it?

  • Antarctica warming: Is extinction inevitable?
    Antarctica warming: Is extinction inevitable? (video)

    Researchers from the Museum and the British Antarctic Survey explore the effects of the warming seas around Antarctica.

  • Are islands a gateway to extinction?
    Are islands a gateway to extinction? (video)

    Join Nick Arnold to discover why island species are often highly vulnerable to extinction.

  • Coral reef
    Coral reef (video)

    Museum visitors and palaeontologist Brian Rosen debate newly published research on coral reefs, including the threats to their survival.

  • Are we in crisis?
    Are we in crisis?

    What will our quality of life be like as species go extinct, human populations continue to grow and resources become scarce?

  • Climate Summit 2006
    Climate Summit 2006 (video)

    Students and experts from over 20 countries come together to discuss and debate one of the most important issues facing the world today.

  • Looking behind the labels
    Looking behind the labels (video)

    Consumers are faced with a rising number of labels promoting ethical and eco-friendly businesses. This video explores some of the issues around eco-labelling.

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