nsenvs3000

[nsenvs3000]

Me an interpreter?

What a year it has been. Coming into this course, I did not know what to expect. In a growing time of social media, I may not be as enthralled with it, given my age gap with many of my classmates. I am not used to social media, nor do I like posting my thoughts and feelings online for everyone to read. This course has expanded my knowledge and the uses social media has. In a growing world, this is the transition to reach people in getting a message across.

Ethics, what are ethics? Hard to explain, given everyone's definition will be different. Ethics can be a frame for guidelines one follows or a set of rules. My ethics to follow are simple, treat everyone with kindness and respect. This idea does not just focus on people but all living and breathing things surrounding us. I think the development of ethics starts with how you are raised, the ideas people write about, and what you are taught. In a world with a population growing exponentially, space is being utilized for development. The surrounding nature we grew up knowing is being transformed into buildings and shops. To construct and profit from mother nature's destruction, I can only imagine what a person's ethics may be. As an interpreter, I want to enrich people's lives and open their eyes to the beauty surrounding us.  May then their ethics might change.

I believe there can be an equal balance between growth and prosperity without diminishing our environment. Architects develop treehouses; Automakers build electric cars, Wastewater can be treated through constructed wetlands. Innovation has always been on the rise, with an environmentally conscious mind, but there needs a push for more. With the steppingstones I built with this course, I hope to use them to pursue new avenues that will provide the inspiration to push the environmental agenda.

http://efc.web.unc.edu/2016/09/23/constructed-wetlands-wastewater-treatment-walnut-cove-nc/

As a nature interpreter, it is my responsibility to educate and correct the facts. When I was little, I always believed that throwing sticks in the water was hurting the lake. I always told my dad, "make sure my brother doesn't throw sticks in the water." I grew out of that phase, of course. As I got older, I always found myself in a "teaching role" with all age groups. It started with the Boys and Girls Club, then Junior forest rangers and Scouts Canada. With the amount of schooling I have completed, I am surprised I have not done teachers college. As educators, providing a stimulating curriculum can be challenging. Technology is all around us and plays as a distraction unless used in a way to educate. In a reply post, I talked about attending the Canadian Ecology Centre. An institution such as that is the ideal place to create a new set of ethics, beliefs, and appreciation for the natural world. It is a place I could start to educate.

 https://www.tes.com/news/its-obvious-learning-outside-classroom-works

As a student, I was always hands-on. To stay focused, I need to be immersed in the information. That is why the Canadian Ecology Centre was a great place to learn. I have had jobs where I work in the field surrounded by nature, land, and water. Anyone can read a book and collect information, but does it stick with you. You can present pictures to provide stimulation but experiencing is something that sticks with you. Every summer I try to go camping, canoeing, hiking, in any place I can find. I travel the world to experience new cultures and experience nature firsthand that one couldn't share here. Having those opportunity's educates me and allows me to relay the information as a interpreter.  

Algonquin Park, Alberta, Grizzly bear.

In conclusion, I think anyone can be an interpreter, share their own beliefs and ethics about nature. All I ask is you go out and explore it for yourself to create them. Take a leap and plunge and come back to tell your stories. 

[nsenvs3000]

Great post, I really enjoyed it!

Its interesting to read about a kid not liking the outdoors, how one finds it kind of dirty. When I was a kid all I wanted to do is play outside and check out what it has to offer. So many just want o to play in the dirt and get messy. I guess it depends what you are exposed to as a kid and how you are raised. I'm glad you have expanded your opinion on nature. I was touched to read about your grandparents and your family. Sometimes its hard for kids to follow in their family's footsteps, especially to become a farmer. As the world grows I think farmers are going to be hurt more and more due to corporations. So, to hear about the protests in India I was hurt. There should be no violence given it is a peaceful protests. I appreciate the information being shared, about the strugglers India is going through, I would not have known of its existence otherwise, probably like most people. I agree with your final statement about this is what it means to be a nature interpreter. Continue to spread your compassion about nature and your beliefs. Keep up the fight for a better outcome for the farmers and I will try and do the same. 

Cheers.

From the Heart.

For my last blog post, i’d like to share my own beliefs when it comes to being a nature interpreter. Admittedly, at the beginning of this course I wasn’t too fond of nature, I always thought it was kind of dirty, filled with insects and just not my cup of tea. I mean i’m still not very fond of insects, but I definitely have a newfound appreciation for nature. This is why I think as a nature interpreter, it’s important that I am compassionate and kind to nature. 

Majority of my childhood I think I just misunderstood nature. I didn’t realize how beautiful and soothing it could be for your soul. To me, it was just the dirty outdoors even though of course it has always been a lot more than just trees, grass and bugs. However, as of recently my relationship with it began to change. 

I’ve mentioned in an earlier post that during my trip to India last year was when my relationship with nature truly began to change. I’d like to share that feeling once again, because it’s truly important to me. My family comes from Punjab, india. In Punjab, the majority of the population there live off of farming. Not only do they farm to survive, but they farm because for generations we’ve been farming. So the one day when my uncle took my brother and I to the farm lands, and with my own eyes I saw the farmers working on their individual plots. It was one farmer per plot of land, and the land just seemed to go for miles. They were knee deep in soil, just digging, watering, planting and instinctively I was disgusted at the idea of being covered in dirt. However, when I just sat on top of the water motor and watched from a distance, as they continued to work, it finally hit me. All of a sudden I felt instant regret and guilt for feeling so disgusted, because these fields they were farming on, were once the same fields my grandfather, and his father worked on as well. I felt instant guilt in thinking I was disrespecting not only my grandparents, and great-grandparents, but all my ancestors who have only ever known farming and are the reason I am standing here today. 

Farmer husband and wife, in their fields. 

My grandfather used to tell me stories about him working on these farms. He would tell me how hard it was to work in the blaring sun, and for 14 hours of the day too. He always told me how much his heart-ached during the dry months, when he’d watch his plants begin to dry and wither away because it hadn’t rained in months. Then, he’d tell me the stories about the joy the farmers felt when it finally did rain. Some would cry out of relief because the rain saved their months long work, while others would call it a day and drink in celebration. 

It was then in India when I realized I had it wrong the whole time. Nature has always been nurturing and giving to me. This is why I felt guilty. I felt guilt because I knew how deeply connected my grandfather was to the same soil that was disgusting me seconds earlier. Not only did the soil feed his family but it had the heart and soul of all my ancestors in it, and that is why it was so dear to my grandfather. You see, to farmers their farmland is not just their livelihood but also extremely spiritually important. Their soil means so much to them, because its the same soil their fathers, and their father’s fathers, and even their father’s father’s father once stepped foot on. It’s been passed along for generations, so of course there is an emotional connection to it. My trip to India taught me that I need to be kind and compassionate to nature, because it’s nurtured my ancestors for centuries and it’s the only thing connecting me to them. 

This is why I want to share with you all something that is so dear to my heart, something that makes me tear-up even writing it. I’m not sure if you have heard about currently 12 million_ farmers are protesting new farm bills passed in India. Farmers from North, South, East and West India have made their way to Delhi to protest against these bills, but they have been met with tear gas, water cannons and beatings from the police. The violence against them is completely unnecessary because their protests have been entirely peaceful, and majority of these farmers are old aged and already risking their lives during this pandemic to protest. The farmers know all the bills are disguised to help them, when in reality they make them more vulnerable to large corporations. The Indian government has pulled their minimum support price, and instead has given the private corporations the ability to determine the rate at which farmers can sell their produce. The minimum support price was acting as a minimum wage for the farmers, but now since large corporations decide the price, the farmers are left with no leverage or backup plan for their goods. This is very dear to me, because I am only one generation removed from being in India protesting as well. I come from a family of farmers and they know right now their livelihood is at stake. They know that these new bills give these large private corporations the ability to manipulate and exploit farmers even more so than they already do, and push farmers further into debt until they’ll be forced to sell their farm land. The same ancestral land, the same land these farmers work 14 hours a day to make the food that feeds the entire country. 

From the protests In Delhi.

12 millions+ farmers protesting in the streets of Delhi.

I’ve attached links to petitions, links to learn more, but please consider reading up more because I know I didn’t do a sufficient job in explaining the depths of the threat these bills pose to farmers. 

This is what I think is important as a nature interpreter. I think it’s important to be kind and compassionate to nature, and no one is going be to more kind to these farm lands than the farmers themselves. Don’t let the Indian government steal that from them! 

https://www.change.org/p/support-all-farmers-by-revoking-the-farmers-act-in-the-republic-of-india?utm_content=cl_sharecopy_26058773_en-US%3A0&recruiter=1107756442&recruited_by_id=d11970e0-a663-11ea-be3d-638667c84178&utm_source=share_petition&utm_medium=copylink&utm_campaign=psf_combo_share_initial&utm_term=psf_combo_share_abi

https://www.timesnownews.com/india/article/what-is-the-farm-bill-and-why-are-farmers-protesting-against-it/689215 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-kmDsLp0xnw&t=13s&ab_channel=DhruvRathee 

References: 

https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/agency-wire/2705-a-happy-farmer-makes-a-happy-countryvice-president-venkaiah-naidu

https://twitter.com/IkjotChahal/status/1333304013744349185

[nsenvs3000]

Hi Taylor,

Really enjoyed reading your post. The first paragraph really drew me in to the rest of the post. This weeks topic really brings a focus to our personality as a interpreter. In your second paragraph you talk about people not caring about living things. We live in a society that is exponentially growing, taking up space and destroying habitats for wildlife. To make up for our destruction we make zoos, “green spaces” and alternative habitats. I think people need more education on the outcomes of there actions towards habitat destruction. Privilege does play a role, its the opportunity's that we have that can change our views on nature. I am able to go to a cottage and enjoy the surrounding nature. I have done lots of travelling across the globe. You talk about your role being to educate, but education can only go so far. People can be stubborn about there beliefs and not want to change them. With this ever changing world people as a whole need to push for change and the appreciation for nature to last. When you pursue teaching others, I hope what you say they take to heart. 

Cheers.

Ethics in Nature Interpretation

Ethics is a very diverse term that is unique to everyone in different ways (Beck et al. 2018). Personal ethics are moral guidelines that you give yourself that help in situations and making decisions in your personal life (Beck et al. 2018). Often ethical values are shared between people but, the level of importance within your ethics will vary. Some personal ethics I poses in my day to day life includes integrity, respect, empathy, selflessness and honesty (Indeed, 2020). Other types of ethics involve the moral decisions of right and wrong. I myself make decisions based on my ethical and moral views which are developed as I grow as a human being, experiencing different places, cultures and education. In terms of nature interpretation, the type of ethics I developed throughout this course is the moral relationship of human beings to the environment. I value all of natures living and non-living components because they hold true beauty and importance to my life as well as others around me.

I believe every living thing shares an equal intrinsic value despite how powerful one can be over another. What I mean by this is that I morally feel it is wrong for example to destroy ecosystems for urban development or hunt tigers for their fur and/or welcome new products into our lives that had to be tested on multiple animals first. Who is it to say that humans have the rights to make the decisions regarding another living things life? It reminds me of an environmental perspective I have learned about and that is the social construction of nature (Robbins, 2014). Humans for hundreds of years have used natures natural wonders as a way to express social status rather than appreciate nature for all it is (Robbins, 2014). For example, people with weeds all over there lawns were seen as not successful or socially acceptable people because weeds were deemed as “ugly” (Robbins, 2014). Dandelions are a type of weed that humans feel pressured to expel from their lawns but in return we are just damaging the honey bee population (CBC, 2016). Honey bees rely on dandelions because they are the first source of nectar for bees in the early spring (CBC, 2016). Who is to say that humans have the rights to subtract a major food source from an ecological important species just for a socially acceptable status? I believe the answer is that humans don’t have this right and we abuse the privileges nature provides us with.

The type of weeds usually removed from lawns so the lawn looks “prettier”.   https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/solutions/weed-control-turfgrass/

I also believe expressing nature through different art forms is one of the greatest and most ethical ways of doing so. A special place to me where I grew up is my cottage located in Dorset, Ontario. Throughout the town of Dorset, sculptures of beavers, loons and wolves are displayed to express appreciation for these species and acknowledge that they are important in nature. Whenever I walk past these sculptures it makes me think about my encounters with beavers, loons and wolves throughout my life. For example, when I think of beavers, I can tell a story of why beavers were given the status of an emblem of Canada. When I think of wolves, I remember back to when a pair of wolves made shelter under my cottage and I was able to see them come out from underneath and walk back across the frozen lake into the forest. When I think of loons, I think about all the years practicing and mastering a loon call and the cool feeling I got when it triggered a response from them. There is nothing more beautiful then relaxing by the fire on the beach as the sun is setting and the loons are howling back and forth.

Common loon found in freshwater ecosystems.     https://abcbirds.org/bird/common-loon/ 

I also believe privilege plays a role in nature interpretation (Beck et al. 2018).  Being able to grow up and experience the things I listed above is truly a privilege I am forever thankful for. It is to my understanding that some people don’t have the privilege of going outside or having the freedom of seeing a beautiful landscape (Beck et al. 2018). In my most recent adventures, I had the opportunity to travel to Vancouver and go hiking. The accessibility to fly across Canada to another province is a privilege as well that some people may not be able to experience. Hiking and exploring the different ecosystems they have really opened my eyes to how much nature can change even just between a few provinces. Nature flourishes wherever life can grow and be sustained which I think is beautiful.

The ethical responsibilities I have in my day to day life is educating others on why we need to treat nature and the environment as equals to us. Our beautiful environment will not be sustained if we keep negatively impacting it (Wals et al., 2014). That is why environmental education is so important, people can learn about the evolving issues of species loss, ecosystem destruction and climate change in hopes of creating efficient solutions for the future (Wals et al., 2014). If we treat nature and wildlife as an equal to us then maybe we can start to preserve our natural world before it is too late (Wals et al., 2014).

References:

Beck, L., Cable, T., & Knudson, D. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage for a Better World. Urbana, IL: Sagamore – Venture Publishing LLC

CBC News. (2016). Lawn full of dandelions is a good thing, says bee expert. Retrieved from https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/dandelions-lawn-bees-1.3526394#:~:text=Julia%20Common%2C%20chief%20beekeeper%20for%20Hives%20for%20Humanity%2C%20a%20group,at%20this%20time%20of%20year.&text=It’s%20pollen%20and%20nectar%2C%22%20Common,Coast%20guest%20host%20Gloria%20Macarenko.

Robbins P., Hintz J., and Moore S. (2014). Environment and Society. Wiley Blackwell, United Kingdom.

 Wals, A.E., Brody, M., Dillon, J., and Stevenson, R. (2014). Convergence Between Science and Environmental Education. Science, 344: 583-584

[nsenvs3000]

The Environment will rely on the youth of tomorrow, so educate them.

To the Ontario Minister of Education:

The youth of today are not experiencing the world around them. With the rise of environmental problems and an ongoing pandemic, there is a disconnect from socializing and learning. There is a movement to moving to learn online, virtually. Summer camps are becoming less popular or closing. For youth to be involved, everyone needs to play their part, starting with the parents and the teachers. Parents need to push their children to interact with nature and build new skills outside, preferably in front of the screen. Teachers can incorporate ongoing environmental concerns into their learning curriculum, have class out. Youth need that pushes in their early years to develop an interest that will stick with them.  After-school programs can play a significant role, but the majority need funding from the government. Places like The Canadian Ecology offer great schedules for both youth and adults. A great benefit from the program for youth is the accreditation that goes towards a high school credit on their transcript. This is achievable through both government and private funding. Programs like this are unique and not made available to most.

It is proven that programs conducted within formal settings, such as the programs taken at this facility, help youth development. A sensory-rich environment expands one’s imagination. When one is engaged for several days, studies show that situational awareness and conceptual understanding are engaged. Factors that played a role in achieving this are direct experience with nature, access to technology, and collaboration with teams. Implementing these into learning allows the students to be fully engaged and have a more substantial impact in developing their interests. The courses at The Canadian Ecology Centre provide these learning methods and achieve great results. In an environment such as this, students become more engaged and are highly motivated due to staying active while learning. Sitting at a desk all day does not provide the same stimulation. (Ghadiri Khanaposhtani, 2018)

(https://www.canadianecology.ca/school-and-youth-programs/)

A lacking education concerning learning about our Environment is lacking. Youth become distant within their communities and do not value the environmental initiatives we strive for. Initiatives are set out to educate the child on the programs that are out there. It seems there is a struggle to develop a plan that catches the youth’s attention. But with a little advertisement, The Canadian Ecology Centre got it right. Going to schools and talking about the programs is how I got hooked. One can read about how to develop programs and engage the students and understand the guidelines for best practice. The bottom line is to create more schools like the one I refer to in this letter. (Reagan, 2015)

Moving forward, there needs to be a shift. Keep schools and programs they offer, like this one, alive. We cannot afford to have the youth become more disconnected from the world. Youth need to be engaged and act as co-creators or partners that bring meaning to their education. Studies continue to understand how to develop programs and have children be engaged. Shifting towards a culture of sustainability is the goal. Bill Steer, the founder of The Canadian Ecology Centre, has brought this vision to life. He understands youth, and his success shows it. (Riemer, 2013)

(https://www.canadianecology.ca/school-and-youth-programs/)

My experience at the camp is one I will never forget. When the site first became operational is when I attended. Being someone always eager to learn and fond of the outdoors thought this would be a fantastic experience. It truly was. Canoeing down St. Lawrence and camping on edge, watching the shooting stars at night. Being engaged through interactive learning and learning new hands-on skills, like mapping. You are emersed within the Environment having been taught by outstanding teachers. This camp is an experience of a lifetime that every kid should be given a chance to experience.  For a place like this to close, what hope do other schools and programs have? Reconsider your decision.

Thank you

References

1.       Riemer, L. (2013). A model for developing and accessing youth-based environmental engagement programs. Environmental Education Research, 20(4), 552–574. https://doi.org/10.1080/13504622.2013.812721

2.       Reagan, B. (2015). Best Practices and Critical Criteria to Support Successful Youth-Based Environmental Engagement Programmes: An evaluation of the YEEP framework. The University of Waterloo.

3.       Ghadiri Khanaposhtani, L. (2018). Evidence that an informal environmental summer camp can contribute to constructing the conceptual understanding and situational interest of STEM in middle-school youth. International Journal of Science Education. Part B. Communication and Public Engagement, 8(3), 227–249. https://doi.org/10.1080/21548455.2018.1451665

[nsenvs3000]

Great post!

The Ecology Centre brings back some great memories. My first time there was the first year they opened. Having the opportunity to gain knowledge while exploring the outdoors is the best way to learn. More and more kids are losing the opportunity to explore the outdoors. All they want is to play video games and is due to the culture they are raised in. Getting in touch with nature needs to start when a child is developing and parents need to expose them to it. Like the Canadian ecology center, they are many opportunities for kids to learn and explore the outdoors. Join Scouts Canada or outward bound. Outward bound has the same concept of doing trips that contribute to high school course credit. Without exposing youth to environmental programs, we lose the battle against environmental concerns like climate change. The youth of today is the generation that will fight the environmental battles of tomorrow. With Covid and limiting places to go, interaction with people, closing of schools, what's left. Continue developing programs that youth can be apart, create a virtual realty where youth can explore places across the world. 

I appreciate you writing about the Canadian Ecology Center. I hope the center continuers to grow and many youth are able to enjoy everything it has to offer.

If not for us, Do it for our planet and children

Dear Board of Directors,

I am writing to you about the closure of The Canadian Ecology Center. I realize that the closure is a result of insufficient funding, but I am hoping that I can motivate you to try everything in your power to fight against that.

The Canadian Ecology Center helps our children in ways that may not be so intuitive. I remember as a kid, my love for nature started because of our family camping trips. These trips were my only exposure to nature, and I am certain that if it wasn’t for these trips, I would not even think of writing this letter.

A photo of one of the activities that The Canadian Ecology Center offers. Kids seem so happy and at peace. Retrieved from https://www.canadianecology.ca/highschool-credit-courses/ 

I remember running through the forests enjoying the fresh air and being fascinated by all the different organisms that nature has created. These moments were priceless to me because otherwise, I would be sitting at home watching TV or playing video games. These habits would have stayed with me to this day if it wasn’t for my parents. If our children remain indoors, our beautiful planet will pay the price. They would have no urge to even care because nature was not important to them growing up. They never built a connection with nature as children. They need to understand what nature is, how it works, and how humans impact it (EENM, 2020). It’s very hard to change as an adult and develop love for something. It might even be too late to build any connection that would have made us and our planet better. Children would be shocked if they grow up and face an environmental challenge. They must be ready to face the environmental issues of our future (EENM, 2020).  

The Canadian Ecology Center offers our kids that same experience that I had and allows them to build a connection with nature at a young age. As Dr. David Suzuki mentioned in an interview, our societies are so fast paced, and we have no time to sit and contemplate and give nature some of our time. There are no opportunities for our kids to be outside (Rodenburg, 2019). The fact that families would not fight for the closure of such programs concerns me and should concern everyone. It is easier to keep children inside and that seems to be the main concern to families who are not educated (Rodenburg, 2019).

A photo from The Canadian Ecology Center. educators and kids on one of their nature trips. Retrieved from https://www.canadianecology.ca/school-and-youth-programs/ 

Children love nature if they are given the chance and could develop illnesses if they grow up always being inside homes and buildings. Kids could develop nature deficit disorder (mental and behavioural issues) (Toth, 2016). These disorders can be minimized by being outside at a young age. We are concerned for our children because the world is becoming very urbanized and nature is forgotten. We are animals biologically and we need nature in our life. Dr. Richard Louv says that nature calms him, focuses him, and gets his senses excited. Something that I agree with and I feel like everyone (especially children) should experience. Because of these reasons, I urge you and ask you to please do everything you can to keep The Canadian Ecology Center. If not for our sake, for our children and our planet.

Thank you,

Montadher

References:

Environmental Education of New Mexico (EENM). Cultivating the Future of Environmental Education. (2020). Retrieved from https://eeanm.org/about/why-ee/

Rodenburg, Jacob. Why Environmental Educators Shouldn’t Give up Hope. Clearing. (2019). Retrieved from https://clearingmagazine.org/archives/14300

Toth, Susan. Top 10 benefits of environmental education. Project Learning Tree. (2016). Retrieved from https://www.plt.org/educator-tips/top-ten-benefits-environmental-education/

[nsenvs3000]

Where there's a will, there's a way to interpret.

 We live in an ever-changing world, and everything is evolving with it. As a person, we either develop our perspective or act like sheep and believe what we see and hear. We can only be a great Nature Interpreter if people are willing to keep an open mind and listen.

I know that technology is becoming more advanced daily, which allows us to take new avenues in explaining ongoing environmental concerns. It may be a struggle at first, but I believe time and patience will make people understand what they do not. Yes, climate change is real; here are the reasons why. It is a good starting point.

I wonder how an interpreter can reach out to the public and help them understand. Everyone learns differently, just a matter of finding what works. I want to share my passion for the environment with others.   Inspiration comes from many places, but more importantly, many people. Netflix aired the BBC Earth special with David Attenborough. People across the globe raved about it and found new Inspiration in learning about our planet. David Suzuki is an environmental activist, television personality, and writer with a vision of open one's eyes to the changing environment. People today aspire and listen to "celebrities," especially young people. If more people can communicate the same message, perhaps more people will follow suit and follow.

(https://time.com/3415162/peoples-climate-march-new-york-manhattan-demonstration/)

I can ignite my passion by offering my expertise and point of view, along with an open mind. This course has provided me with more tools to express my message in forms other than verbally. Since everyone learns differently, this is the golden opportunity to connect with the masses.

[nsenvs3000]

Thanks for another amazing post!

             Everyone interprets things differently, and its true that apart of that comes from one’s upbringing. Coming into this course I did not know what to expect. I have gained a new appreciation for nature and new ways to interpret it.  Education needs to play a larger role in discussing ongoing environmental issues. It is unfortunate that people today to not acknowledge ongoing concerns like climate change. When it came to doing the first podcast, I was going in blind. From what I have heard from other groups I could have had a more direct focus on youth groups to snatch and hold their attention.  You provide some good points and need to look further into the course apply what I have learned on the second podcast. I hope this course gives you the proper tools to expand others minds on the ongoing concerns the earth has. All the best on your next podcast.

Growing as an Interpreter

Throughout this course I have been exposed to many new ideas regarding nature interpretation, and all the different methods through which nature can be interpreted. It has been very eye opening to learn about all the different ways different environments, stories, pieces of art, or songs can be interpreted from a nature perspective.

What I know for certain is that there is extensive variability when discussing nature interpretation. Throughout this course we have discussed how many different factors can influence a person’s view towards nature, such as geographic location, economic status, or culture. Skogen (1999) investigated how children’s up-bringing and culture influenced their connection and perspective with nature and concluded that those raised with more exposure to nature and in culture that place emphasis on connection with nature, such as Aboriginal people. This study emphasizes the idea that different culture and upbringings can shape a person’s views towards nature and ability to interpret. I find the variance in ways people interpret nature so interesting because no one could really be considered wrong in their interpretation of a certain aspect of nature because we are all so unique with different backgrounds and ideas.

What I still wonder is how far nature interpretation can go and how much influence it can have on future issues relating to the environment. It is no secret that the physical state of the earth has been declining, but one large issue facing the planet is that there are still many people who deny any environmental issues, such as climate change, exist. I think that nature interpretation has a lot of potential in this area, because increasing a person’s ability to interpret nature can also help them understand the complex issues facing it.

I find inspiration through learning about new ways to interpret and think about nature. Throughout university I have taken many courses in environmental sciences which has greatly expanded my understanding on different environment related topics. By gaining better understanding about certain topics through my courses it has inspired me to continue to learn more about different areas surrounding the environment. This course has also inspired me to look back on many events from my life from an interpreter’s point of view in order to strengthen my understanding on the variety of ways nature can be interpreted.

I believe I can ignite by using the information I have learned in this course to interpret different areas of nature in ways that people may be more familiar with and more easily understand. This course has taught me many different ways through which nature can be interpreted, and many important aspects to keep in mind while interpreting, such as the targeted audience you are attempting to interpret for. A strong example of this was working through the first podcast assignment targeted at children ages 8-12. During this assignment I was able to apply many new strategies I have learned throughout this course in order to create a podcast about a somewhat complex topic in a way that young children can understand. Using the interpretation skills I have developed throughout this class, I hope to be able to further assist different groups of people in interpreting complex environmental topics.

Sources:

Skogen, K. (1999).  Another Look at Culture and Nature: How Culture Patterns Influence Environmental Orientation among Norwegian Youth. Acta Sociologica, 42 (3), pp. 223-239.

[nsenvs3000]

Great review, you provided great insight on the podcast. The review on the lessons learned were identified well. You give great detail which anyone could connect with. The information of beet juice, that's a eye opener. I did not know about its alternative uses. Granted, everything comes down to cost. Reminds me of an episode of Shark Tank where too guys developed an ice Melter from volcanic material. This product was eco friendly and had great reviews. Makes you think of all the alternatives that are out there and better for the environment. Your feedback given was informative and positive. The tools used in this podcast gave me ideas for my next one. I think the key is to “visually” stimulate the listener, which was done in this podcast. The overall review was written well and answered the questions given. You sparked my interest to review your next post. 

Salty Situations Podcast Debrief: A seamless execution that made fifteen minutes feel like five

I absolutely loved the first thirty seconds of the podcast, as a participant I felt immediately drawn in by the groovy music, sound effects overlay, and tiktok meme?! The animated tone the hosts conveyed also allowed for an immediate interest in engaging with the content they were about to deliver. 

The first lesson I learned was the danger of road salt to living organisms such as animals and plants. A situational example was posed in which the audience learns that the introduction of salt into freshwater ecosystems impacts the food sources of fish. I also learned that fish are not the only organisms affected by the problem as road salt can also be poisonous to animals we see on land such as squirrels and chipmunks. However we are not just left to ponder on the problem, but we have a solution introduced, beet juice! I know a lot about the nutritional benefits of beets but I had no idea its benefits extended to dealing with snow and ice. Finally, I learned about the impact road salt can have on trees through depleting the vitamins they need to grow, and a second solution of sand is presented as an alternative to road salt in order to prevent slipping in the winter.

                 Image by Rupert Kittinger-Sereinig from Pixabay 

The lessons in the podcast were presented through the use of descriptive words and sound effects to invoke imagery in the various situational descriptions, as well as analogies to relate to the experiences of children such as referring to the freshwater environment as the fish’s home.

I think the method in which the information was presented was very effective in regard to the target audience being children. This is in terms of the humor used, the sound effects, and the casual and friendly mood invoked by the hosts, which I think would positively contribute to keeping children engaged throughout the entirety of the podcast. These techniques used also contributed to the flawless development of information in the podcast while still allowing for breaks, which is great in avoiding overloading the audience with information, but also makes the time fly by. 

                      Image by Irfan RInaldie from Pixabay 

After listening to this I feel motivated to explore and integrate more sound effects and music throughout my next podcast to not only compliment the information being communicated, but also seamlessly transition between different sections.

My overall experience of the podcast was great, I think it would be a fun and enjoyable listen not just for children, but their parents who might be listening in as well. The hosts made it seem like a walk in the park (although I’m sure a lot of hard work went into it), and the only criticism I have to offer is that I feel they could have expanded more on points such as how road salt gets into water and the mechanism in which beet juice works that makes it as effective as road salt. All in all, my rating is 10/10, and I think the hosts of this podcast did an incredible job in communicating to their target audience.

[nsenvs3000]

Save the Monarchs

Great podcast, the intro really caught my attention. The use of nature music would help draw the attention of a child. The voice was upbeat, and the involvement of characters was a great idea. Identifying the children as natures creatures can help them relate to monarchs and the concerns you presented in your podcast.

(https://www.cnn.com/2019/01/07/us/monarch-butterflies-decline-trnd/index.html)

The first lesson is talking about the life cycle of the monarch, metamorphosis. It was explained in simple terms and informative. Examples were provided that a child can identify with, like going to sleep. Also, a visual description of what someone would see is easier for a child to interpret. The second lesson talks about the monarch’s migration period and how it is being altered to do climate change. Travel to Mexico is being extended due to warmer temperature, lack of milkweed, and forests being cut. Child may not understand the concept of distance but may still be amazed by the information. The information about using the magnetic field and the sun for direction is quite interesting. A child might find the use of a map and compass interesting and finding his way home from school, like a monarch. The third lesson talks about changes people can make to help the monarch butterfly. This can be achieved by green forms of transportation, planting milk and other high nectar flowers, and use less water. A child’s interest would peak on riding their bike to school or playing outside by planting flowers.

(FRANS LANTING MINT IMAGES/NEWSCOM  - https://www.sciencemag.org/news/2016/02/monarchs-mexico-recovering-record-low-numbers)

The tool used in this podcast was relating the topic to current events that everyone can relate too. Gives the listener a “connection” to the rest of the topic and keeps them interested, offers a bearing to follow the information. Another tool would be to provide real world examples the listener can relate too. This would help the listener gain a better understanding on the topic and help them follow along.

(https://conservingcarolina.org/habitat-at-home-growing-milkweed/)

My overall experience listening to the podcast was fantastic! Your group did an excellent job capturing the mindset of a child. The use of characters, intro music, and simple examples would help a child understand the topic. Cant wait for the next podcast.

[nsenvs3000]

Hey, great post!

After reading it, it reminded me of the time I lived in Alberta and saw the northern lights most nights. The beautiful green shimmer lights up the night sky and brings a sense of curiosity.  You have provided detail on the mechanics of how the aurora borealis is created and cited all your information which is good to see. It is interesting to know how culture played a spiritual role for the Cree Nations. The idea of one’s soul communicating through the lights is quite touching. To your post, I would have added information on the best time of year to see the lights and best locations across Canada. If you follow auroawatch.ca it provides accurate measurements of the geomagnetic activity which can predict the likelihood of seeing the lights.  I hope you get a chance to see them. Look forward to your next post.

Nicholas

Http://auroawatch.ca

Aurora Borealis: The North’s Natural Wonder

It’s an autumn night in northern Ontario, people are sitting by the lakefront with their heads leaned back towards the stars, as they are captivated by the vivid array of colours dancing across the sky. Colours of green, yellow, red, blue and purple shift between many forms and provide a stark contrast of light to their inky backdrop of the northern night sky.

Photo: Colourbox.com/ Stock Image

These lights are known as Aurora borealis, or more commonly the northern lights. Although I have never had the opportunity to experience the northern lights, I hope to witness its painted colours at least once in my lifetime. Personally, the lights not only serve as a reminder of the vast beauty within Canada but the astonishing capabilities of mother nature. This display is a natural phenomenon that results in the magnetic field surrounding the north pole, which is why they can best be spotted in places of higher latitude, such as Canada and Alaska. To get more technical, the northern lights are created by the release of gas from the suns’ solar activity that then collides with Earth’s magnetic field. This collision disturbs the magnetic field and produces charged particles that follow the path of magnetic forces into the Polar region. The charged particles then collide with oxygen and nitrogen atoms, resulting in the light show we observe (Library of Congress, n.d.).

Beyond the aesthetics and science of the northern lights, one thing that amazes me is the rich spiritual significance they represent within different communities. As far back as the times of Galileo, the northern lights have awed many people and symbolized several cultural meanings (Library of Congress, n.d.). For example, the Cree First Nations see the northern lights as a symbol of the life cycle and believe that passed loved one’s souls are communicating with them through the lights (Aurora Zone, n.d.).

Many efforts to capture the essence of the lights have been made in various art mediums, such as painting, poetry, and photography. One famous interpretation of the lights is a painting done in 1865 by Frederic Edwin Church called Aurora borealis. It is hung in the Smithsonian American Art Museum and is said to be reflective of its time, as this interpretation of the northern lights represented the belief that God was upset with the confederate slavery during the American Civil war, and the lights were a sign of His displeasure. The story of these signs from God inspired Union soldiers to remember the weight of what they were fighting for (Albany Museum of Arts, 2020).

Frederic Edwin Church. Aurora Borealis (1865). Oil on canvas. 56 in x 83.5 in. Smithsonian American Art Museum, Washington D.C.

As time has continued, the aesthetic, scientific, and spiritual fascination with this natural phenomenon has not faded. Today, viewing the northern lights is still a well sought-after experience and people travel from all over the to do so. I personally hope to travel to northern Canada to catch a glimpse of the ‘moving and mystical’ lights that have been explained as visually and emotionally indescribable (Redal, n.d.). For those who prefer the comfort of their own home, the lights can also be viewed on video livestreams. No matter what way people choose to view the northern lights, the unearthly beauty of this natural phenomenon rarely fails to amaze its spectators.

References

Albany Museum of Arts. (2020). Dancing lights in the sky. Retrieved from http://www.albanymuseum.com/kids-staying-inspired/dancing-lights-in-the-sky

Aurora Zone. (n.d.). Mythology of the northern lights. Retrieved from https://www.theaurorazone.com/about-the-aurora/aurora-legends

Library of Congress. (n.d.). What are the northern lights? Retrieved from https://www.loc.gov/everyday-mysteries/item/what-are-the-northern-lights/

Redal, W. (n.d.). Northern lights: nature’s winter magic. Retrieved from https://www.nathab.com/articles/alaska-and-northern/churchill-northern-lights/natures-winter-magic/

[nsenvs3000]

Natures Tiny Trees - Lichen

Everyone talks about nature, but mainly the weighty topics like Animals, Trees, and our Oceans. What about the little guys? The 15,000 species of awkward looking trees and bushes. These beautiful creations play a significant role in our ecosystem worldwide.(The Canadian Encyclopedia)

Lichen is an organism consisting of both fungi and green algae, living in a symbiotic relationship. This organism does not have a classification of its own, but its fungal component classifies it. There are three lichens, foliose, fruticose, and crustose varieties, all with different unique features. The foliose structure appears as a lobed leaf of a tree, unlike fruticose, which hangs like a man's beard of tree branches or stands to the attention of the ground. The third being crustose, a crusty cover that lies across rocks. Not to mention the different colors and distinguishing features each species has and their unique names.(‌Crampton, 2014)

Xanthoria parietina is a foliose lichen that has a high resistance to pollution, especially in the form of nitrogen; the orange cup-like structures are apothecia and produce spores, H. Crisp, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0 License  (‌Crampton, 2014)

These beautiful organisms play a crucial role in our environment. They participate in nitrogen fixation, biological weathering, and pollution indicators and can absorb and store radioactive substances. Many scientists use lichen to determine the pollutants in each area. In 2005 an experiment was conducted by sending lichen into space, exposing it to extreme radiation amounts. When the samples returned to earth, the results were astounding. The results showed no damage to the organisms, even on a microscopic scale.(‌Crampton, 2014)

Lichen is quite a universal organism. Apart from being an environmental indicator, lichen is known for antibiotics, toxins, perfumes, natural dyes, and deodorant. Usnea acid, found in lichens, is used in natural medicine as an antibiotic and anti-inflammatory. Wolf lichen contains vulpinic acid, which is known to kill certain bacteria. The medical potential is still unknown. Oakmoss and Pseudevernia furfuracea are known for their earthy scent in perfumes and deodorants. To this day, some even add water to lichen and use it to dye wool and other fabrics. More so amongst indigenous cultures.(‌Crampton, 2014)

Several types of lichens growing on a tree branch, makamuki0, via pixabay, CC0 public domain license  (‌Crampton, 2014)

Across Canada, you can find around 2500 species, the majority in the northern parts of Canada. Their relative abundance is an excellent beneficiary to some mammal's winter diet, especially for caribou. Across coniferous forests and arctic tundra, you will find "caribou lichen" scattered across tree branches and barren ground. (Aparna, 2016)

So, the next time you go for a walk, take a look around. Chances are you are looking at lichen and not even realize.

To learn more, watch the clip

(‌Crampton, 2014)

References:

1.      Lichen | The Canadian Encyclopedia. (n.d.). Www.Thecanadianencyclopedia.Ca. Retrieved November 3, 2020, from https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/lichen

2.      ‌Crampton, L. (2014, January 2). Lichens and People: Uses, Benefits, and Potential Dangers. Owlcation; Owlcation. https://owlcation.com/stem/Lichens-and-People-Surprising-Interesting-and-Helpful-Uses

3.      Aparna Vidyasagar. (2016, June 8). What Are Lichens? Live Science; Live Science. https://www.livescience.com/55008-lichens.html

[nsenvs3000]

Art in its rarest form

This week’s focus is on the expression of nature through art. Reading over chapter 10 in “Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage” outlines several ways of expression. There was no discussion on photography and yet its everywhere. Expression through photos scatters social media, pictures of protests and anarchy. National Geographic will show pictures of logging and the destruction of nature, emphasizing the global concerns people have. Photography can also be used to educate people on the ongoing environmental concerns.

Jan van Boeckel talks about have a disconnection, replacing the reality with simulations. I feel that technology and development have severed that connection with nature. Areas being developed that have taken away our green space or altered it to the point of not being natural. When it’s all gone what do we have left to remember it.

In schools and group talks, the speaker will emphasize the discussion with photos. We can see deforestation in the amazon, hydro dams being built that effect aquatic eco systems and the decline in endangered species due to over hunting. If there was not visual documentation of these tragedies, how could one be educated about the world around them that they could know. We teach about nature and show what is out there to experience and the ongoing global concerns.

I have always loved photography; it helps me capture the beautiful experiences I have had. It also allows me to share with others and promote awareness that there is more to nature and you can see it in its rarest form.

(Swimming in India - https://digitalsynopsis.com/buzz/environmental-pollution-pictures-earth-day/)

Beck, L., Cable, T.T., & Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage for a Better World. Urbana, IL: Sagamore Publishing.

van Boeckel, J., (2015) At the heart of art and earth: an exploration of practices in arts-based environmental education. Environmental Education Research. 21(5), 801-802

[nsenvs3000]

Hello Grish,

Your post was beautifully written. After reading it I went and bought the book “The Immense Journey”, because your post had such a impact. I think people are losing interest in “stopping to smell the roses” due to life becoming busy and always need to be moving. I hope that is not the case for the majority because change is ongoing. One day you see a beautiful moment in time  and the next its gone to be come something else. We can write about these moments, take pictures, express it in whatever way we can. But those memories will diminish in hopes of making new ones. I hope you keep on writing, I think its one of your talents. Cant wait to read your next post. 

Nick

Artful Exploration

              The connection between art and nature is a long explored one. The essence of art is to imitate life, and the heart of life comes from nature. Its brilliance lies in the ability to captivate the eyes and ears of the soul. Whether its printed sheet music or a painting, these stationary objects are able to move beyond their physical limitations to encapsulate the mind in a riveting experience of movement. To produce art is one’s greatest manifestation of gratitude towards the present experience, which continues to live on through time.

              An excerpt from Loren Eiseley’s book, The Immense Journey, captures this beautifully.

“Once in a lifetime, if one is lucky, one so merges with sunlight and air and running water that whole eons, the eons that mountain and deserts know, might pass in a single afternoon without discomfort.”

Cover of Loren Eiseley’s, The Immense Journey

              The mindfulness of the written experience relinquishes itself to the present moment. It allows writers to materialize the intimacies of existence, moving beyond the realm of human experience to bring meaning to those who read their words. The written word is not the only form of art which aims to bring presence to others; visual, musical, and theatrical arts engage in the same purpose.

              So, who am I to interpret nature through art? If I had to label myself, I would say I’m a performer. I understand art as using one’s skills to tell a story. While I used to involve myself in much more traditional forms of art such as music and visual art, I currently use my skills to tell enchanting stories to the public. The ability to use words in way that is captivating and absorbs listeners into the present moment is an art form itself.

              Nature interpretation gives rise to the current experience. It allows individuals to engage others to truly be present and be aware the world that exists around them. While art may not be the most traditional form of interpretation, it still lends itself to the same purpose; to bring true appreciation and respect for the world we exist in.

A photo of my dog sniffing some flowers in our backyard.

              As humans we live our lives in moments. In extraordinary instances, we stop to notice the world around us, ever so fleeting in the world’s calamity. As time continues, these moments start to fade and people try to capture these memories in the form of sounds and images, otherwise known as art. Its builds a version of the world in a single moment, to be carried forward through the rest of time. A moment ever so real, ever so present; a world that does not change. Pausing to take a breath on a vibrant experience and enjoying every bit of the moment before it’s time to move on. Art is taking a break to be present, in a world cannot help but move forward.

I hoped you enjoyed reading my blogpost! I would love to hear your thoughts on art as a means to connect with the present experience.

Grish 

[nsenvs3000]

Covid-19, an environmental fix.

Lately I have been thinking about travelling with friends and family, having the ability to share the beauty of the outdoors with the people we care most about. I have travelled from Ontario to Alberta and back about 4 times now. Also, from Ontario to the east coast more times than I can count. Recently I traveled to Europe with my family. All these experiences I can have, and they are more enjoyable when you can share them. Seeing the surrounding beauty that is all around us, wherever we go. Now with the COVID-19 those experiences are dwindling. We are restricted from exploring outside our “bubble”. Whether it means seeing family or friends that don’t live in the same household or exploring new lands. We are required to be confined to our small places. Yes, it is beneficial to us, but how does affect the environment?

With social distancing and the avoidance of travel to work, vacation, and other areas, our environment is getting better. Do the benefits out whey our confinement? Companies are shutting down factories, there is less exhaust fumes from motor vehicles, even canals in Italy look clear. Scientists are showing a reduction in NO2 (nitrogen dioxide), CO (carbon monoxide), SO2 (sulfur dioxide) and PM2.5 (small particulate matter) due to the constraints followed by COVID-19. This pollution depletion was first noted in Wuhan, China, where the virus originated. Now we can see significant reduction amongst the rest of the world.

This map shows the per cent reduction in PM2.5 levels when comparing the 2020 shutdown period to the same period in 2019. Image adapted from: IQ Air 2020

 A reduction in air pollution does have positive benefits for our health, unlike the virus itself. In China alone, the pollution reduction is expected to have saved around 53,000 to 77,000 lives. But this reduction is only temporary until we revert. It seems with the virus as our top priority, we have climate change on the back burner.  With economic recovery coming into place, pollution is on the rise again. Without better policy, the environment may be worse than before the pandemic.

“We need to have the same urgency as we have had with the COVID-19 crisis if we are to lessen the effects of global warming.” - Larissa Fedunik-Hofman

 Fedunik-Hofman, L., 2020. What Impact Will COVID-19 Have On The Environment?. [online] Curious. Available at: <https://www.science.org.au/curious/earth-environment/what-impact-will-covid-19-have-environment> [Accessed 5 October 2020].

[nsenvs3000]

Thanks for sharing, this is a very important topic. I learned alot from your post and find it astonishing that by 2050 there will be more plastic than fish in the major water bodies. There does need to be change in managing the use of plastics. One could start by buying cans or glass bottles of water, instead of plastics, since glass and metal are much easier to remanufacture into products. But the advocacy for plastic reduction needs to increase tenfold, if we are to reduce the amount of plastics. The micro plastics have a large impact on our eco systems and also threaten our drinking water. The WHO have identified that the consumption of microplastics has little effect on our health, but there is little research to support that. The recommendation is to continue research and apply real world application to determine human health. The recommendation is to reduce plastic waste, not for our health, but for the health of the environment.

Not only are major species being effected by microplastics, but they can affect the smallest invertebrates. Waterways close to downtown Edmonton, Alberta have been affected. During a study 35 sites were tested around Edmonton and microplastics were found in everyone. It was said that we could stop the production of plastics, but the problem would persist.

 "So anytime you see a water bottle on the side of the road or a plastic bag blowing in the wind, that is a future pile of microplastic. Plastic doesn't degrade back to its original components. It breaks down into smaller and smaller pieces and those pieces have to end up somewhere” – David Locky (Professor at MacEwan University)

This research will hopefully provide a better idea on how microplastics affect the environment. With invertebrates being at the bottom of the food chain, we can trace the plastics amongst larger animals and the effects it has. What we do in a landlocked location can have detrimental effects on our oceans, as we can already start to see.

"There is nowhere on earth that we are immune from the effects of this” – David Locky (Professor at MacEwan University)

 Young, L., 2019. Microplastics Are In Our Drinking Water, But Are Of ‘Low Concern’ For Human Health: WHO Report. [online] Global News. Available at: <https://globalnews.ca/news/5795769/microplastics-drinking-water-health-who/> [Accessed 5 October 2020].

CBC. 2019. 

'Shocking' Results Prompt More Research On Microplastics In Edmonton-Area Water Bodies | CBC News

. [online] Available at: <https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/micro-plastics-edmonton-water-research-macewan-1.5179945> [Accessed 5 October 2020].

Microplastic Pollution in the Environment – Small Plastics, Big Problems

I’ve been on social media a lot recently and have stumbled upon multiple awareness posts regarding microplastics that have since been on my mind. What are microplastics you may ask? Microplastics are very small plastic bits (about 5mm or less in length) that are harmful to aquatic life and species. From my research on this topic, I found that microplastics have various health effects on humans as well through their prominent role in our food web.

This is the photo that first made me want to do more research on microplastics. As someone who frequently goes out for sushi (about once a week) this was a very moving photo to me. It will always resonate in my mind. “If it’s in the fish, it’s in you”, we need to do better!

Did you know that plastic is the most prevalent type of marine debris found in our lakes and oceans? I mean look around you, almost everything we poses is made of plastic or contains it. I think that we as a generation need to be more aware of this problem and work on ways to help save our ecosystem. It would surprise you how many people are uneducated on this topic; I’ve talked to multiple of my friends about it and was disappointed to hear that they have never heard the term “microplastic” before.

Are we already a few years too late? Our current plastic consumption and pollution rates predict that by the year 2050, there will be more plastic in our major oceans and lakes than fish. This is now at a scale we simply cannot ignore, and changes need to be made.

There are many things that we can do on a personal scale to reduce our consumption of plastic and in turn help stop microplastic pollution. Some of these things include but are not limited to: using reusable grocery bags, buying less fast fashion clothing (yes that means less online shopping), buying reusable water bottles, etc. Every little thing we do counts. Personally, when I first heard about this ongoing problem, I started to make small changes in my life. I’ve bought stainless steel straws, have stopped buying plastic water bottles and even convinced my parents to start bringing their own reusable shopping bags!

Some good news surrounding this topic is that multiple large companies such as Adidas, Nestle, HP, etc. have started working towards making their products and packaging more environmentally sustainable. Additionally, many entrepreneurs and scientists are currently working on finding ways to prevent plastic from becoming waste and are looking for ways to tackle microplastic pollution.

Plastic rarely degrades and sometimes it really is the small things that cause the largest impact; in this case, those small plastics that you don’t particularity see are going to cause irreversible damage to our world. Just food for thought! Let me know what you think of this and if you’ve heard about it before, I’m very curious.

Here is a link with additional information on this topic if you’re interested! This link also provides more tips on how to reduce microplastics in your daily lifestyles. (LINK: https://tappwater.co/us/what-are-microplastics-and-5-tips-to-reduce-them/)

Reference:

US Department of Commerce, N. (2016, April 13). What are microplastics? Retrieved October 01, 2020, from https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/microplastics.html

Microplastics: Your Environment, Your Health | National Library of Medicine. (n.d.). Retrieved October 01, 2020, from https://toxtown.nlm.nih.gov/sources-of-exposure/microplastics

[nsenvs3000]

I quite enjoyed reading your post. I do agree that the media has a narrow focus, that can be perceived towards white privilege, and they neglect to report on the broader view. Coming from northern Alberta and being surrounded by small communities, you notice new outlets do not really cover the issues that can occur and the problems that affect us. News stories are only published if they think it will bring a large viewership. More so if it directly effects larger areas, like cities. I read articles of people saying if a white person gets shot, every news station covers it. If someone of a different color gets shot, than there is minimal coverage. The same idea can be interpreted for the environment. On major news outlets, climate concerns that effect Lage cities mate priority. The pipeline effecting people in BC, there is a stronger focused on the benefits, rather than the impact to indigenous communities. It is not often you hear about clear cutting in the Amazon Rain Forest or flooding in the West Nile River, because it has little impact on the people that would identify as “privileged”. Everyone has a voice, and we need to choose to not be selective on what voice we listen too.

DRAKU, F. and MUGANGA, E., 2019. West Nile Cut Off As River Nile Floods - Uganda. [online] ReliefWeb. Available at: <https://reliefweb.int/report/uganda/west-nile-cut-river-nile-floods> [Accessed 4 October 2020].

Jones, H., 2020. Amazon Rainforest Could 'Collapse' As 2020 Fires Set To Be Most Devastating Yet | Metro News. [online] Metro.co.uk. Available at: <https://metro.co.uk/2020/08/06/amazon-rainforest-collapse-2020-fires-set-devastating-yet-13093883/> [Accessed 4 October 2020].

The Privilege of Things

When considering the role privilege plays in nature interpretation, there are many different avenues this post could explore. Privilege is a factor interwoven into every aspect of society. My working definition of privilege would be a benefit or exclusion from added hardships only afforded to a particular group of people and created by social constructs and human history.

To unpack this further, a very prominent example of privilege for a specific group of people, created by humans and social constructs, is the privilege exclusively afforded to white people. Additionally, this privilege is not afforded to BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Colour), who, throughout history and still today, experience prejudice and discrimination that white people do not.

When thinking about white privilege and nature, something stands out to me in relation to climate action. In the day’s climate action movements and media coverage, those with white privilege are often afforded the centre stage of media coverage to speak on their concerns about climate change and share their interpretations of the impacts it has on nature.

One stark example of this was when Ugandan youth climate activist, Vanessa Nakate, was cropped out of a photo by a news outlet that originally pictured her and several white peers, including Greta Thunberg. In response to what happened, Vanessa Nakate called out the racist photo editing and very powerfully said, “we don’t deserve this. Africa is the least emitter of carbons, but we are the most affected by the climate crisis…You erasing our voices won’t change anything. You erasing our stories won’t change anything” (BBC News, 2020).

Instances such as this point out that the opportunity to speak about what threatens our relationships with the environment is impacted by privilege and racism. The media chooses which activists to cover, who gets the opportunity to share their interpretation of nature and climate, and who many of us listen to. This limits our knowledge of the full impact of climate change and restricts the narratives many of us hear to only those coming from white activists. So, it is up to us to educate ourselves and listen to those the media is neglecting to cover.

Instances like this occur in Canada as well. Media attention is rarely focused on the impacts of climate change on Inuit communities, despite the severity of its impacts on Inuit culture, traditions, knowledge, and life. Instead, the narrative the media shows largely comes from young white activists and their interpretation of nature, climate, and how and why we should take action. The media, therefore, ignores a plethora of other dialogues and meaningful interpretations of nature.

I’d like to end this post by recommending a few sources to check out if you’d like to learn more about different perspectives and relationships with the environment as well as climate activism.

Check out: Indigenous Climate Action https://www.indigenousclimateaction.com/

This David Suzuki article: “Tackling climate change means purging privilege from politics” https://davidsuzuki.org/story/tackling-climate-change-means-purging-privilege-from-politics/

If you want a good book to read: “The Right to be Cold: One Women’s Story of Protecting Her Culture, the Arctic and the Whole Planet” by Sheila Watt-Cloutier

References:

BBC News. (2020). “Vanessa Nakate: Climate activist hits out at ‘racist’ photo crop”. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-51242972  

[nsenvs3000]

Privilege in different forms.

The word Privilege has been around for century's, with everyone interpreting the definition differently. Some define one’s privilege based on the color of one’s skin or gender, where we come from, even our status in society. I think of privilege as the opportunities we have.  Of course, not everyone identifies with the same privileges as other.  With the situation everyone is in now, the word privilege is getting said a lot. Its not our choice to be given the attributes we have and the difficulties we face. It’s our job to act for the change to occur for the better. It seems now that the action taking is causing more harm than good. I see nature as having the same issue. Nature is a valuable resource and it is being taken for granted.

Nature is valuable in the form of its beauty and uniqueness and as a resource to prosper from. The majority see nature for the latter. Nature is ravaged across the globe in order to utilize its valuable resource and the repercussions, like climate change, have cost lives. The privilege of having all this mesmerizing beauty around us has been abused. It is being taken for granted and the future generations will soon have nothing left. There are people who try to rectify the issue by panting trees or supporting NGO groups. Protests occur across the globe to change politicians’ minds. The question is can we change the idea of taking nature for granted.  

I find myself being privileged, given the opportunities that I have had to explore many parts of this planet. Being from Canada and having all these amazing beautiful parks to explore at our fingertips is a privilege. Canoeing down Manitou lake in Algonquin Provincial park or hiking the La Cloche trail in Kilarney Provincial park, there is so much to explore. My favorite Canadian location to date is a tossup between the north section of James Bay or exploring Gros-Morne National Park. Driving with my best friend all the way north, as far as we could go in Quebec, was a great experience. Enjoying the sunny days and slowly see the changes in color amongst the trees, waking up one day to see a couple of feet of snow. Fair warning, you may be caught behind a heard of caribou that are migrating across the province at 3am, in pitch darkness. The reason for the trip was to see a natural water fall that was going to be turned into a hydroelectric damn. This emphasizes my point that the natural beauty and resources are taken for granted. If we have our parks, like Gros-Morne, to hold on to for future generations to explore, there might be hope. Hope for a change in how the world defines privilege when it comes to nature interpretation.

New location for hydroelectric dam.

Exploring James Bay.

Making new friends in James Bay.