If we want to mitigate and solve the ecological crisis, we must reconnect with nature. Only when we value and understand the natural world, will we take the necessary actions to enact the right changes. We can begin with these two goals:
Teach children to value nature
- Require a weekly nature class, alongside arts, music, science, PE, to increase knowledge and appreciation of natural ecosystems. Activities can include making compost, learning about local biodiversity, growing plants in the school garden, growing mushrooms, collecting specimens for identification, doing experiments in nature, experiencing live animal shows, helping with local conservation efforts, learning about indigenous culture and food, learning about environmental issues, etc
- Include at least one field trip every two months to local natural areas, nature centers, zoos, or conservation facilities throughout the school year
- Support local and state environmental groups working to bring environmental education to grades K-12
Make it easier for people to experience nature in and around cities
- Increase the number of natural parks (parks that have natural landscaping and trails) in neighborhoods, especially around urban areas that have low numbers of parks—not to be confused with green spaces that lack natural species
- Increase use of local plant species in landscaping by reforming the landscaping code and teaching landscaping architects and designers
- Maintain existing natural spaces and add informative nature signs
- Ensure access to and protection of tide pools and coastal areas by giving more authority to the California Coastal Commission
- Provide increased funding for local environmental education programs
- Increase visits to zoos, aquariums, and animal sanctuaries by creating local programs for discounts and free tickets while regulating them to ensure a high level of animal welfare
When people understand, interact, and value nature, they will more likely support policies that protect the natural world.
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