Community Conversation: Seeing and Doing Conservation Through Cultural Lenses Register

Date and Time:
Wed, Sep 9, 2026; 7:00 PM (Eastern)

Organized By: Maine Chapter

Location: Virtual

What does conservation look like when viewed through a cultural lens? In this talk I offer perspectives on conservation challenges stemming from an anthropological lens. I begin by discussing various vantage points gained from my own experience, followed by more general concerns many anthropologists hold with respect to conservation, focusing both on critiques and contributions the discipline offers. I conclude with several concrete examples of conservation projects that are integrating multiple disciplinary lens in their work to foster a more just and lasting conservation.

Dr. Richard Peterson is Professor Emeritus of Environmental Studies at the University of New England. He holds an interdisciplinary doctorate in Environmental Studies, centered in environmental anthropology and environmental ethics, and is author of the book, Conversations in the Rainforest: Culture, Values, and the Environment in Central Africa. His research has focused on the incorporation of indigenous ecological values, knowledge, and practices into conservation projects and other environmental initiatives in Africa. In addition to his book, he has published his work in numerous book chapters, journal articles, and conference proceedings. He and his family live in Portland on the edge of the 85-acre Fore River Sanctuary. He enjoys making furniture and taking long forest walks and is very grateful to have landed in Maine.