TED: Life in Biosphere 2 | Jane Poynter

The speaker shares experiences from living in Biosphere 2, a sealed ecological system, comparing it to life on Earth (Biosphere 1). They discuss the challenges faced, such as oxygen depletion, and the scientific discoveries made. The talk reflects on the impact of living in a closed system on personal and environmental awareness, and explores future projects inspired by this experience, including growing plants in space. The speaker emphasizes the importance of small actions in contributing to a biophilic society.

What was the primary purpose of creating Biosphere 2?

• To build a new type of residential area

• To develop a new tourist attraction

• To create a new type of agricultural farm

• To study self-sustaining ecological systems

How long did it take to make a pizza in Biosphere 2?

• Four hours

• Four months

• Two weeks

• Two days

What unexpected issue did the inhabitants of Biosphere 2 face?

• Excessive rainfall

• Oxygen depletion

• Insect infestation

• Overpopulation

Where was the missing oxygen in Biosphere 2 eventually found?

• In the water tanks

• In the soil

• In the concrete

• In the plants

What was one psychological effect experienced by the inhabitants of Biosphere 2?

• Heightened senses

• Sleep apnea

• Loss of appetite

• Increased aggression

What was a key achievement of the Paragon Space Development Corporation?

• Creating a biosphere on the moon

• Producing organisms that completed life cycles in space

• Growing plants on Mars

• Developing a new type of spacecraft

What innovative project was observed in Eritrea?

• A wind-powered desalination plant

• A geothermal energy project

• A seawater-based agricultural system

• A new type of solar farm

What transformation is the world undergoing according to the speaker?

• From a biophilic to a biocidal society

• From a technological to a natural society

• From a biocidal to a biophilic society

• From an industrial to an agricultural society

What personal action did the speaker take to create an oasis in their backyard?

• Built a greenhouse

• Stopped using a rake

• Planted exotic plants

• Installed a water fountain

What does the speaker suggest as a way to connect with the biosphere?

• Participate in community gardening

• Study environmental science

• Engage in deep breathing

• Travel to different ecosystems