Ep 20: Islands of Abandonment: Life in the Post-Human Landscape ft. Cal Flyn

The Sense of Place Podcast

Have you ever wondered what happens to the places abandoned by humans as a result of war, nuclear damage, or just the cruel hand of time?

Initially, it may sound rather bleak, but today’s guest has found some silver linings amongst the ruins.

In today’s episode, I chat to author and journalist, Cal Flyn, about her second non-fiction book, 'Islands of Abandonment: Life in the Post-Human Landscape'.

'Islands of Abandonment', which has been named The Sunday Times' Science & Environment book of the year (2021) and shortlisted for other prestigious awards, explores ghost towns, exclusion zones, and post-industrial ruins. It aims to illustrate both the ecology and psychology of abandoned places.

In my conversation with Cal, I discover what sparked her interest in abandonments, her process for writing and researching the book, how nature benefits from our absence, and much more!

To find out more about Cal's work, be sure to check out her website: https://www.calflyn.com/

(Recorded November 2021)