Supported by
The support of the Scottish Funding Council is vital to our work to inspire and share knowledge with audiences, local communities, and future generations.
(Talk) Can a zoo change how we feel about nature?
When
Monday 7 September 2026
18:00 - 19:30
Where
The Royal Society of Edinburgh
22-26 George St, Edinburgh EH2 2PQ
Format
Hybrid, In-person
Access
Hearing loop, Wheelchair access, Wheelchair accessible toilets
Age
Suitable for ages 16+
Cost
Free to book
About this event
Connecting with nature is something that comes naturally for us, right? Explore the science behind the benefits of feeling closer to nature.
Join Beccy Angus, Head of Discovery and Learning at the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland team to explore the growing science of nature connectedness and discover how feeling closer to nature can benefit both people and nature.
In this talk followed by a panel discussion, we’ll dive into why some experiences in nature stay with us for a lifetime, while others quickly fade.
Through stories, research, and interactive discussion, we’ll explore what helps people build a deeper connection with nature, from moments of curiosity and wonder to opportunities to learn, participate, and make a difference. We’ll uncover how RZSS are using evidence to understand the journey from simply noticing nature to feeling inspired to protect, value and love it.
Whether you’re a lifelong nature lover or someone who wants to reconnect with the natural world, this will explore why our relationship with nature matters and how every one of us can play a part in shaping a more nature-connected future – bring your thoughts, ideas and questions!
In collaboration with
Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS)
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) is a wildlife conservation charity with a bold vision: a world where nature is protected, valued and loved.
Their mission is to save wildlife and empower people in Scotland and around the world to protect, value and love nature. But they cannot achieve this alone, their vision needs an inspired and empowered worldwide community to join together and help them to achieve their pledges.
Event type
Curious
Talk
Contributors
Beccy Angus
Head of Discovery and LearningBeccy leads the RZSS Discovery and Learning team at the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland and works to connect people with each other and nature in meaningful, inclusive ways. She has more than 20 years of experience in public engagement, learning and interpretation throughout heritage focussing on nature connectedness and impact measurement. Beccy sits on the board or the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) and the habitat restoration charity Bright Green Nature. She is the chair of the BIAZA Conservation Education Committee and is the vice chair of the EAZA Conservation Education Committee. More than anything, Beccy understands how important and valuable communication, meaningful engagement and stories are for connecting, making relevant and educating people about science, wildlife and global conservation.
Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS)
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) is a wildlife conservation charity with a bold vision: a world where nature is protected, valued and loved.
Their mission is to save wildlife and empower people in Scotland and around the world to protect, value and love nature. But they cannot achieve this alone, their vision needs an inspired and empowered worldwide community to join together and help them to achieve their pledges.
Contact us
If you have an event enquiry, please email us on public_engagement@theRSE.org.uk.Event testimonial
What is Curious?
Curious is the Royal Society of Edinburgh’s (RSE) free festival that celebrates the research, ideas and knowledge shaping society today.
Each year, Curious brings a packed programme of free in-person and online events covering themes from the arts, humanities, policy, science and more. To date, we’ve welcomed over 10,000 attendees for talks, workshops, exhibitions and discussions where you can learn from and speak with Scotland’s leading thinkers. As part of the RSE’s mission to make knowledge useful and accessible for everyone, Curious is open to anyone who wants to learn more about the world around them. No specialist knowledge is needed, just bring your curiosity.
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