“Diversified, versatile, inspiring. This is how a prosperous life should look like –  as well as a successful ball night. This year’s Ball of Sciences has no shortcoming in these aspects, since biodiversity is going to be brought into the ballroom. Waltz surrounded by flowering meadows, foxtrott amidst insect buzzing. Doesn’t this guarantee a wonderful ball night? Nevertheless, it is one more reason to care for this diversity.”

Franz Essl is assistant professor at the Department of Botany and Biodiversity Research at the University of Vienna. In his research he focuses on biodiversity protection and so-called neobiota, non-native species. He is also a member of the Austrian Biodiversity Council (IPBES) and involved with “Scientists for Future“.

Photo: (c) Skonatitsch