Lecture: "Steppes, Factories, and Dams: How Industrialization Changes Us and Our Relationship with Nature"

On June 26 at 18:00, as part of our new lecture series on local identity, we will discuss the connection between landscape and our sense of self.

The industrialization of the 19th and 20th centuries significantly impacted human relationships with the landscape. The construction of hydroelectric power stations on the Dnipro River led to the displacement of communities and the flooding of ancient natural and historical landmarks of Ukraine. The expansion of agriculture resulted in the large-scale plowing of steppes and the loss of a major portion of natural steppe ecosystems. Furthermore, the construction of massive factories altered the familiar routines and lifestyles of local communities.

How does industrialization transform the landscape? Are environmental changes linked to shifts in identity? Can we decolonize our relationship with nature, and how does Russia's ongoing ecocide compel us to become more attentive to our surroundings?

We will explore these questions with Vadym Maniuk — ecologist, PhD in Biology, Associate Professor at Oles Honchar Dnipro National University, and member of the All-Ukrainian Ecological League.

Admission is free upon registration

Location: 2nd floor, Lecture Hall.

The lecture program on local identity is part of the capacity-building and networking program for local cultural actors "Heritage: Space for Work". This program is supported by the Partnership Fund for a Resilient Ukraine (PFRU), funded by the governments of the United Kingdom, Estonia, Canada, Norway, Finland, Switzerland, and Sweden.