Can a Zoo Change How We Feel About Nature? | In-person
About this Event
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!
Can't attend in-person? Watch online!
This is a hybrid event. This event page is for the in-person tickets only. If you would like to attend online, please book your tickets through the
Important points to note
- This event is suitable for age 16+
- Event format: This event is a talk and will involve some speakers sharing talking followed by a Q&A. There may be some interactive parts of the event but you can just sit back and enjoy listening.
- Filming: Livestreaming and photography may take place at this event. Please let a member of the RSE Public Engagement team know if you do not want to be photographed. Recorded events will be made available on the RSE YouTube channel.
SPEAKER
Beccy Angus
Head of Discovery and Learning
Beccy 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.
MORE SPEAKERS TO BE ANNOUNCED!
Event Partner
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.
About the Curious festival
The RSE’s free Curious festival of knowledge is back, from Saturday 5 − Sunday 13 September 2026!
Curious is Scotland’s annual festival of knowledge. Across its seven-year history, Curious has welcomed over 10,000 attendees into its yearly programme of talks, workshops, discussions and exhibitions – all covering different topics and subject areas. There’s no need for you to have any prior specialist knowledge before coming along, just bring your curious self! With plenty of events both in person and online, you can take part from anywhere.
You can check out the full programme of events here.
Accessibility
We aim to make events as accessible as possible. If you have any accessibility requirements or have any questions related to how we can support this event, please contact [email protected]. Accessibility information for the RSE building can be found on our website.
- Step-free access: Ramped access for visitors is available via 26 George Street through Lakeland. Upon arrival, please call 0131 240 5000 and a member of staff will meet you and guide you to the event. Please note that the entrance ramp has a steep gradient (1:12).
- Wheelchair spaces: If you would like to book a space as a wheelchair user, please select the ticket type 'wheelchair space ticket' during the booking process. If this is sold out, please contact the Curious team on [email protected].
Privacy Policy
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Where is it happening?
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