Achieving 30x30: Percentages Matter, We’re All in This Together, and What You Do to Help Counts Big-time

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Green space in the Chicago region (credit:  Chicago Wilderness Alliance ) Did you know that back in December, one of the most important planetary environmental agreements in history got approved in Montreal? This would be the “Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework” (GBF), approved by the 15th Conference of Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, which clearly states the goal of protecting, conserving, and restoring 30% of Earth’s lands and waters by 2030. Not only was another opening created for the concept that non-human species have the right to exist and live their lives according to their kind in appropriate habitats, but indigenous peoples were included and given their due as primary keepers of land. If countries actually follow through on commitments (one of the biggest ifs) there might be a chance that biodiversity could start recovering, and we might have a chance of getting to half-earth by 2050. By providing enough habitat for 80% of species on earth, t
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Children Need Trees and Shrubs, Too

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My brother told me this sad story: He is selling his house, which has in back a patio, a strip of grass, and a small wooded area with native flowers and bushes, paths, and places to sit. A prospective buyer came through and liked the house, but she was worried. Where would her children play? She discussed cutting down the trees, including some young oaks, in order to put up a swing set and gym. He tried to explain the value of a small natural area for wildlife and humans (reconciliation ecology in action). Children need nature, and what better place to find it than the back yard?

Trying to sell a house in this economy is sad, or certainly difficult enough, but my brother and I shook our heads over this prospective buyer's truly sad lack of imagination. Had her children been along she might have been surprised at their reaction to the backyard--most likely it would have been incredibly positive. My brother was relieved not to be selling to her.

Comments

Gloria said…
I hope he finds a buyer willing to allow the trees to stay. We have found that the grand children find much to interest them in our gardens with no open space large enough for playing ball.
April 1, 2010 at 10:58 AM
Adrian Ayres Fisher said…
I think he will, most people would value trees, I should think. Wild backyards are where many children first get imprinted by nature. Of course, then they grow up to be nature lovers :)

Hope this happens to your grandkids.
April 1, 2010 at 2:19 PM
knapperbill said…
Hi Adrian. I think you make a valid point here about kids and nature. I'm an elementary educator, and it seems as if kids become more separated from nature every year. I hold outdoor education summer classes, and am always impressed with their natural inclination to begin climbing trees. They just simply need to get outside! Great blog, by the way. You have many thought provoking topics. Love it!
April 15, 2010 at 4:55 PM
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