Our Planet Reviewed

To date, naturalists have described 2.1 million species. There are probably 8 to 30 million more to be deciphered! Add to the equation the fact that many are on the verge of extinction: a quarter, or even half, could disappear by the middle or end of the century. Discovering this biodiversity to better protect it is therefore crucial. This is the goal of La Planète Revisitée (Our Planet Reviewed). Follow us...

La Planète Revisitée (Our Planet Reviewed) is aptly named. This major nature exploration programme aims to rediscover what we thought we knew: the variety of aquatic and terrestrial species on our planet. Over the past thirty years, scientists have become aware of the immensity of biodiversity, even though it is dwindling before our very eyes as a result of human activities and global warming.

In order to discover the speciesin time and try to protect them, our teams set out to conquer the most bountiful regions, some of which are still untouched: from tropical zones to the deep ocean. And given the urgency, there is no question of skimping on resources: between 15 and 40 people are constantly on site! Researchers, high-level amateurs, technicians and photographers guarantee the richness of the results and feed the large international databases. The pace of exploration is also impressive: Santo in Vanuatu in 2006, Mozambique and Madagascar in 2009-2010, Papua New Guinea in 2012-2014, French Guiana in 2014-2015 and New Caledonia in 2016-2021, Corsica in 2019-2022...

And other destinations are in the pipeline...

Scientists are taking a close interest in "neglected" species: invertebrates, algae and fungi, which represent a significant part of biodiversity and play a fundamental role in the balance of ecosystems. They must be broadly included in conservation strategies and not focus solely on iconic species, as has been the case for turtles, mammals, birds, etc. The time for symbolism has passed.

The result is a "new generation" of collections that reflect the state of the planet at the beginning of the 21st century. Perhaps you have already heard of them? Because we are keen to share our knowledge with as many people as possible through our educational projects and exhibitions. A way of taking you on board with us in this quest for life.

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