‘Two Talking Wolves’ tour visits Western Oct. 23

Environmental journalist Todd Wilkinson and conservationist Bob Ferris will discuss eco-capitalism and Ted Turner’s conservation work as part of their “Two Talking Wolves” tour and Western’s Huxley College of the Environment Speaker Series, at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 23, in the Communications Facility 120 on Western’s campus.

The presentation is free and open to the public.

How does capitalism need to change to save the world? What obligation do companies and business people have to give back to society? Throw in topics like re-wilding the West, supporting the United Nations, and combating the dangers posed by terrorists armed with nuclear weapons, and you have a recipe for a fascinating discussion. Discuss the groundbreaking work of Ted Turner, the original “Captain Planet,” and learn how the Pacific Northwest figures at the center of many urgent environmental issues affecting the United States and the world.

Wilkinson’s new book “Last Stand: Ted Turner’s Quest to Save a Troubled Planet” has been spurring discussions about “eco-capitalism” across the country. Wilkinson, whose work has appeared in national newspapers and magazines, drew on seven years of behind-the-scenes research to tell the dramatic story of how nature not only saved the legendary “media mogul,” but also left him transformed.

Ferris has worked in the conservation and sustainability communities for more than 30 years. A trained scientist and former businessman, he currently serves as the executive director of Cascadia Wildlands in Eugene, Oregon.

The presentation will include a question-and-answer period. Anyone interested in the topic is encouraged to attend and participate.

The Huxley Speaker Series, sponsored by Western’s Huxley College of the Environment, is intended to bring together environmentally-minded members of Western and Bellingham communities. Speakers address topics of contemporary environmental concern in the region and the world.

Western’s Huxley College of the Environment is one of the oldest environmental colleges in the nation and a recognized leader in producing the next generation of environmental professionals and stewards. Huxley’s distinctive, interdisciplinary curriculum reflects a broad view of the physical, biological, social, and cultural world, and has earned international recognition for quality.

For more information, please contact Western’s Huxley College of the Environment at 360-650-2554.