Live on 9 February 2010 from 2 pm (GMT+1hr): the first CIRAD disputation, on the topic of biodiversity

CIRAD is organizing its first disputation (debate) on 9 February 2010, from 2 to 5 pm in Montpellier, Agropolis International amphitheatre. The concept is a cross between a teaching method used in mediaeval universities, based on the formulation of a question followed by arguments for and against, defended by stakeholders, and the arbres à palabres (talking tree), a forum for village discussions in Africa.

The discussions will centre on the question of payment for environmental services: a means of conservation, development or ecological blackmail ?

Two debaters will be taking the stand, under the watchful eye of a conseil des Aînés (council of elders). The audience, which will also have the chance to express itself, can side with one and/or the other point of view and make its views known. At the end of the debate, the elders will pass judgement, in all their wisdom.

Video available shortly