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Disclaimer
This blog was created for ENVS*3000 at the University of Guelph.
The opinions expressed here represent my own and not those of the University of Guelph.
The University of Guelph is not responsible for the accuracy of any of the information supplied by this blog.
My personal ethics as a nature interpreter
As I've studied more in this program, my personal ethics have also grown as a nature interpreter. I didn't have the same strong ethical beliefs going into this class as I have now. My values and obligations towards nature have been rediscovered as a result of taking this course. I did have personal ethics about nature before taking environmental science classes and learning about nature interpretation, but they are more stronger and more varied now. My environmental ethics were very much what you may have heard before this class; I didn't litter and I was concerned about recycling, but now they go far deeper. Even while I still think those things are significant, my knowledge has grown to include a greater comprehension of how humans affect the environment.
While advancing my nature education, I have grown more conscious of the ethics of accessibility and inclusivity in the environment and in nature education. Many more people will become aware of their effects if environmental education is made more widely available. In communities where there may be a lack of natural knowledge, nature interpretation ought to gain more traction. Everyone should also get the chance to enjoy the outdoors and learn about the natural world.
As a nature interpreter, I also think it's critical to provide accurate, fact-based information. The public is assisted by interpreters in understanding the scientific and financial foundations of resource management (Beck et al., 2018, p.12). As interpreters of nature, it is our duty to stay up to date on scientific and practical issues pertaining to the natural world. As a nature interpreter, my ethics have developed to place a high priority on sharing what I know about the natural world. I had no idea how crucial it is to educate people about nature interpretation and the reasons why protecting it is so vital until I took this class. In my opinion, encouraging conservation and environmentally friendly behaviours is crucial to protecting ecosystems, and biodiversity, and minimizing the effects of human activity on the environment. One of the most exquisite things that nature has to offer is biodiversity.
Additionally, because of the special connections among species, the diversity of plant and animal life would diminish the wonder and allure of the natural world. By protecting them, we can extend the lifespan of the distinct and varied ecosystems. Ecosystems depend on biodiversity in order to function, despite their own diversity. We depend on ecosystems for clean water, air, and pollution control as well as climate regulation. Not only are they necessary for survival, but they are also a crucial first step toward establishing a connection with your surroundings. Human-caused carbon footprints have harmed the ecosystem. Some people may not be aware of their carbon footprint or the influence that humans have on the environment if they had little environmental education or were not raised in an atmosphere that emphasized preservation and conservation. That's why educating others about nature and how to perceive it is one of my personal ethics.
It is our responsibility as nature interpreters to encourage the moral preservation of the natural world while also encouraging people to have a personal connection with it. This is a crucial duty because nature interpreters should promote respect for the natural world in order to motivate conservation efforts and moral behaviour in relation to the environment. If someone is motivated to take the time to enjoy the outdoors, they could come to respect sustainability and conservation as well. As interpreters of nature, it is also our duty to adjust to changing requirements and learning methods. We need to be adaptable and change with research and education. Our knowledge and methods may need to change when new insights into sustainability and nature are discovered.
There are many useful methods for interpreting nature that might be used to encourage people in the future to cherish nature. Children love to utilize their imaginations and are frequently entertained by stories; they also enjoy believing that a forest is magical. Anybody, but especially kids, can be inspired to be creative when they hear stories told aloud in the outdoors. Engaging in hands-on activities is another captivating approach to encourage someone to get inspired and involved with nature. Approaching nature interpretation as a return to childhood is another way you can inspire children to become involved with nature. Whether you take a child on an adventure with friends and show them the pileated woodpecker, or you give them the tools they need to make healthy decisions, when on a hike with friends. Or something else, you are offering a spark to be fanned and developed (Hookyas, 2023). My parents encouraged me to explore with nature and utilize my imagination when I was little. Playing in the mud, the trees, or the creek was one of my favourite ways to pass the time when I was a child growing up in a house surrounded by forests. There were so many levels to the forest to discover, and I frequently figured out a method to mark my favourite locations with groups of sticks and pebbles so I could find them again. This did, in fact, ignite a spark in me that motivated me to mature and pursue my education in nature. This is why I relate to the perception of nature as a return to childhood.
I still cherish my ethics and views of how to perceive nature while I pursue my studies. As I go through life, I want to keep learning and encouraging others to get outside and discover why so many people work to preserve the environment. We are really fortunate to live in Canada, where there is an abundance of wildlife. We are fortunate to have a wide range of natural characteristics, including different kinds of fauna and the northern lights. Along with this obligation is the maintenance and protection of our ecosystems. I am passionate about ensuring that nature is recognized and conserved because I have this luxury. The interpretation of nature is a field that benefits from a diversity of viewpoints and methods. This means that everyone may find inspiration in their own unique facet of nature, and that there is no right or wrong way to spend time in nature. By selecting approaches that are in line with variety, interpreters help to create more harmonious and long-lasting connections between humans and the environment.
Hello there!
I loved your analysis of a shifting ethical landscape, from initial values to deeper, more inclusive perspectives. Prior to formal education in environmental science and nature interpretation, my environmental ethics leaned towards basic actions like recycling and avoiding littering. However, my depth of understanding regarding humanity's impact on the environment has broadened significantly since then much like you.
I also value the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in environmental education. I believe that widening the reach of nature interpretation fosters a broader awareness of our ecological impacts. The significance of ensuring that everyone, irrespective of their background, has access to nature and its knowledge aligns with my core values.
As nature interpreters, it's important that any information we share is backed by scientific evidence. Educating others about nature and cultivating an appreciation for it is a fundamental ethical obligation I share.
I agree that it is important that people understand the value of biodiversity in the context of sustainability and ecosystem viability. The interconnectedness of species and ecosystems forms the backbone of environmental stability. I think that educating individuals about their carbon footprint and raising awareness about conservation practices is a crucial responsibility of nature interpreters.
Blog 10
Describe your personal ethic as you develop as a nature interpreter. What beliefs do you bring? What responsibilities do you have? What approaches are most suitable for you as an individual?
Hey! For our final blog post, we were asked to write about our personal ethic as we develop as nature interpreters.
I’m currently in my final year of university, and I’m beginning to look for jobs. And for the first time in my life, I’m looking for career jobs, instead of part-time of summer positions. So needless to say I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about what jobs I ideally want, what jobs I’m willing to do, and what jobs I’m not willing to do. Our course readings for this week mentioned a fear of a desk job being a potential motivating factor for pursuing a career related to environmental interpretation. That one did admittedly resonate with me a bit. My last job was more or less of a desk job, where I worked as a research assistant in a lab. And even though, on paper, it was closer to what I want to do as a career, I didn’t enjoy it very much. I missed working in the service industry, I missed the high-energy, social atmosphere, I missed getting to work with my hands and see the results right in front of me. Spending most of my working hours not only indoors, but in a dim lab staring at a laptop just made me irritable. So I’d love to find a job in the sciences that’s more hands-on and active, but I’ve realized I’d happily move away from research if I can’t find a job in that field that lets me move around.
Every week or so I get an email from the university describing job opportunities. It hasn’t been very useful in finding jobs, but it sure has been useful in helping me figure out exactly what place/companies/fields I am not willing to work for. There’s always plenty of decently paying opportunities working for mega-corporations like PepsiCo, and the like, as well as their countless subsidiaries. I know now that I wouldn’t be able to live with myself if I worked for a place like that. I would much rather go just about anywhere else, including back to the service industry. I might have a less prestigious career, but I care about having a job that I enjoy doing and that I see as important. During my last job, it was difficult to get up and go to the lab in the morning when I couldn’t really see the effects and importance of the research that was being done. I know that whatever I end up doing, it needs to be relatively active, and even better if I get to spend time outdoors as part of it. As long as I’m still able to spend my free time outside, that much is negotiable.
I wanted to go into more details about my beliefs/motivations/self-assigned responsibilities. First, the rather apparent role of nature in mental health and our current culture around it. Not that I have enough space to go into all of my thoughts on that, but I’d like to include a few of them here. One, on mental health being treated like an individual problem, when it really should be recognized as a systemic one. Even if people admit that it’s systemic, the “solutions” and treatments that are currently popular tend to be highly individual. Take mood-regulating medication, go to eternal therapy, isolate yourself from others in the name of self-improvement. In general, mental health has been both commercialized and capitalized upon. Like I mentioned, I don’t have the adequate space to go through my thoughts on the systemic causes of mental lack-of-wellness. But as I’m sure many of us are aware, spending time outside and spending time with other people (or even both at the same time!) have been shown time and time again to be beneficial to human well-being. Honestly, I don’t think we need more research in that area. We already know, and as much as I like numbers, more statistics aren’t going to save us.
So for me personally, all that means that I don’t want to have a job that drags down the health of other people, or my own. I would love to have a job that helps remove some of the barriers that have been put up between nature and people, which I don’t think should belong in different categories in the first place. But an important caveat for me is that I don’t want my career to be a constant fight. I’m quite tired of war analogies. There’s less of a point in destroying something if there’s nothing better to work towards. I don’t want to dedicate my life to fighting climate change, because I’ll make myself miserable and make everyone around me a little less happy. That’s not to say I don’t care, but I do think that a bunch of sad and lonely people aren’t going to bring about much positive change. Like the video with David Suzuki and Richard Louv mentioned (I think it was Richard Louv who mentioned it), it’s hard to make change if people don’t have any sort of positive idea of a future to look forwards to.
So to summarize as neatly as I can: If I end up doing something related to nature interpretation, I want it to get people excited and help people feel more connected to the world around them.
Picture: One of the Arboretum gardens after a snowstorm
On the same note as working towards something rather than solely working against, I have a book recommendation for anyone looking for a sci-fi story with a positive outlook: Monk and Robot by Becky Chambers (and its sequel)
Thanks for reading!
Hello there!
I related a lot to your blog post about navigating career choices, ethics, and personal beliefs. Your reflections on career choices resonated with me, as I'm also contemplating work satisfaction and its impact on my mental well-being.
I agree that job fulfillment is not just about the job title or the field's prestige. It's about a deeper connection and a sense of purpose, both of which I think are equally or more important than salary or job title. I also share your desire for a dynamic, hands-on role, possibly outdoors. I believe that seeing tangible results and feeling the significance of one's work is crucial and often overlooked.
Your consideration of personal environmental ethics when exploring career paths was insightful. I believe that one's work should align with their personal values and contribute positively to society. Your acknowledgement of mental health as a systemic issue and the recognition of nature's role in well-being was a great way to connect with course content.
I think it's important that we seek careers that foster hope and connectivity rather than solely focusing on fighting against issues like climate change. This is crucial for our own well-being. Overall, I appreciated how you took into account environmental ethics, personal beliefs, and aspirations to find a career that aligns with your values and brings you a sense of fulfillment and purpose.
Personal environmental ethics
Blog post 9: Describe your personal ethic as you develop as a nature interpreter. What beliefs do you bring? What responsibilities do you have? What approaches are most suitable for you as an individual?
I believe that the interconnectedness between humanity and nature is profound, shaping our perceptions and responsibilities towards the environment. As I begin to see the world through this new lens of a nature interpreter, I recognize that it's not only about appreciating the beauty and complexity of the natural world but also about creating a set of personal ethics that govern my interactions, beliefs, and responsibilities towards the natural world. These ethics will shape my relationship with nature throughout the rest of my life and can impact the choices I make about my career path, where I decide to live, who I surround myself with, and most of all, my relationship with myself.
At the core of my ethos are foundational beliefs that shape my role as a nature interpreter. I believe in the intrinsic value of biodiversity and see immense value in protecting and preserving it. This belief forms the foundation of my responsibility, to act as a steward, advocating for the preservation and sustainable coexistence with our environment.
My personal environmental ethics and beliefs also influence several aspects of my day-to-day life as I strive to live and act in alignment with my values. My knowledge and understanding of how consumerism is detrimental to the environment is one of the driving factors that has led me to place less value on physical possessions and live a more minimalistic lifestyle. My interest in sustainability and human impacts on the environment also led me to make a personal decision to stop eating meat for environmental and ethical reasons as I became more informed on how the meat industry worked as a teenager.
But with climate action and staying informed on the climate crisis comes eco grief, an emotional response to the widespread degradation of the natural world and a sense of helplessness or powerlessness. As a nature interpreter, you are forced to face the widespread impacts of environmental degradation, habitat loss, and species extinction. This emotional connection, often referred to as eco-grief or ecological mourning, is a profound and personal experience that I have also witnessed in many of my peers. It involves mourning the degradation of landscapes, biodiversity loss, and the loss of ecosystems that hold deep personal significance.
Eco-grief is not a burden to carry alone but is a shared sentiment among anyone who deeply loves and appreciates the natural world. It is important to acknowledge this grief, but not to let it weaken my commitment to advocate for nature. On the other hand, it is important to prioritize your own mental health and wellbeing. Being constantly exposed to new climate disasters and inequalities through news or social media can be mentally taxing and make us feel as if every issue is our burden to carry and problem to solve. I do think it is our responsibility to take climate action but to not pass a point where this action is detrimental to our own mental health.
In navigating this emotional aspect of climate action, I feel a responsibility to share with others that it is okay to only give what time and energy they can without having negative personal impacts. I wish to create spaces that nurture empathy and understand that everyone’s ability to give differs. It is important to also share stories highlighting nature's beauty and resilience to instill a sense of hope and empowerment within young people, encouraging others to join in the efforts to protect and restore our environment for future generations.
I believe in conveying accurate information while also honouring the emotional and cultural significance of natural landscapes. By participating in inclusive experiences that invite diverse perspectives, I hope to foster a sense of belonging and responsibility within myself and towards the environment in all individuals.
Additionally, my environmental education in my childhood taught me to prioritize the principle of “leave no trace” or “take only pictures, leave only footprints”. This exposed me to advocating for responsible and sustainable interactions with nature at a young age. Through leading by example and promoting sustainable behaviours, I strive to inspire others to cherish and protect our natural spaces as I do.
In conclusion, my journey as a nature interpreter is to recognize the intrinsic value of nature and the tragedies of the climate crisis without becoming overwhelmed or consumed by it. Recognizing and understanding eco-grief not as a hindrance but as a driving force for change, I remain committed to taking climate action and acting in accordance with my values in my daily activities.
Blog 8 (week 9) - Fireflies; I just think they're neat
Bioluminescence is one of the most incredible phenomena on the planet. Before humans invented electricity and lightbulbs in the early 1800s, the only thing we knew that could produce light was fire and stars…and life.
As humans we like to think of ourselves as quite advanced and intelligent as we have mastered how to light up the dark - fire allowed us to find safety from predators at night when we were most vulnerable and allowed us to work even after the sun had gone down. But we aren’t special, so many species were making their own light long before we ever tried.
If you’ve read my old post on art and nature you’ll remember one reason I am very fond of fireflies is because of a chance encounter with a massive population during field work; but fireflies have always been near and dear to my heart - growing up in rural Canada, there's no shortage of time to waste and bugs to catch and fireflies where the first insect I ever really took the time to observe up close as a kid.
Bioluminescence is incredible for a lot of reasons, one being it is almost perfectly efficient at using energy (Branham, 2005). Fireflies are tiny! They don’t have a lot of material and energy to waste so their light needs to be as cost effective as possible. If you’ve ever touched a lightbulb that’s been on for a long time it's hot! But fireflies don’t waste any light energy as heat - both for their own safety and to save precious calories.
For glow-worms (larval fireflies) flashing lights are a warning to predators - a giant neon sign saying “HEY! I TASTE REALLY BAD!” (and they do, so if a bird eats the glowing worm once, it's unlikely to want to do it again). Adult fireflies have unique flash patterns for their species and use their light to attract a mate (I’ll save you my attempts at flashing jokes, you’re welcome) (Branham, 2005). I’ve you’ve ever taken a date on a romantic night out to look at the stars, are you and the firefly really that different?
So how does it work? Well bioluminesce happens through a complicated looking chemical reaction like this:
(Navizet et al. 2011)
It looks science-y and difficult but at its core ATP is the same molecule that your body uses when it needs energy. When you eat, the energy from your food attaches a phosphate “P” onto the molecule and then you rip the phosphorus off to use that energy when and where you need it! When the P is ripped off to do biofluorescence the energy is used to power a reaction between magnesium or calcium, oxygen and a chemical the fireflies produce called luciferin that produces light!
As pollen and nectar foragers- they are also pollinators hard at work even after everyone else is asleep. So thank a firefly for more than just their incredible light! I think it's always good to remember that as separate and exceptional from nature we may consider ourselves to be as humans - most of our technology is something nature did first and really - we’re not so different from the rest of the animals we share a planet with.
Branham, M. (2005, September 5). How and why do Fireflies Light up?. Scientific American.
Marc Branham, an assistant professor in the department of entomology and nematology at the University of Florida, explains
Navizet I, Liu YJ, Ferré N, Roca-Sanjuán D, Lindh R. The chemistry of bioluminescence: an analysis of chemical functionalities. Chemphyschem. 2011 Dec 9;12(17):3064-76. doi: 10.1002/cphc.201100504. Epub 2011 Oct 13. PMID: 21997887.
Hey there!
Your post on bioluminescence brought back some awesome memories for me. I used to catch fireflies in a jar at my cottage with my cousins. Your mention of fireflies being the first insects you observed up close as a kid was very relatable, I also remember being very interested in how these tiny bugs lit up.
It's mind-blowing how bioluminescence is such an efficient use of energy, especially for creatures like fireflies with limited resources. I loved how you explained their flashing patterns – a neon sign shouting, "I TASTE REALLY BAD!" for glow-worms, and a romantic light show for adult fireflies looking for love. Who knew fireflies were the original masters of chemistry and light production?
I like how you made connections between the firefly's use of ATP and our own energy processes and I think this is a great way to explain this process in a way that is accessible for many people.
And let's not forget their role as nighttime pollinators! It's a reminder that even when we think we're the kings of technology, nature did it first, and we're not so different from the incredible creatures we share this planet with.
Thanks for the trip down memory lane and the reminder to appreciate the wonders of nature, big and small.
Abby
What gets me excited about nature: sea turtles
Blog post 8: Interpret (through this blog) the most amazing thing you know about nature – get us excited. This is your blog – you audience isn’t out in the field with you so bring the field to your armchair reader.
Sea turtles are one of the first aquatic species I was introduced to and my interest in them is what sparked my interest for the natural world. Their graceful movements through the water and their remarkable life cycles make them one of the most intriguing species on our planet.
Sea turtles are living relics, having existed for over 100 million years. Their ancient lineage predates the dinosaurs, making them a symbol of endurance and adaptability. The fact that these creatures have withstood the test of time, evolving, and surviving through various environmental changes, adds a layer of complexity to their existence. One of the most remarkable aspects of sea turtles is their complex life cycle, which spans both land and sea. Female turtles return to the same beaches where they were born to lay their eggs in the sand, engaging in a nesting ritual that has been repeated for millennia. The tiny sea turtle hatchlings emerge and make their way across the beach to the sea where they embark on an incredible journey across the open ocean, facing numerous challenges and predators. This life cycle highlights the interconnectedness and importance of preserving both land and sea ecosystems to protect this incredible species.
Sea turtles play a crucial role in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems. Their foraging habits help control jellyfish populations, helping to maintain balance between species in marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the nutrients from sea turtle eggs and hatchlings contribute to the fertility of coastal ecosystems, influencing the abundance and diversity of marine life. Their presence is an indicator of a healthy marine environment, and their conservation is vital for the overall well-being of our oceans.
Sea turtles are true global travelers, covering vast distances during their migrations. Some species, such as the loggerhead turtle, undertake epic journeys across entire ocean basins. The leatherback turtle, the largest of all sea turtles, can travel thousands of miles in search of jellyfish. The ability of sea turtles to navigate across oceans, guided by instinct and environmental cues, adds a sense of mystery to their existence and emphasizes their role as ambassadors of the seas.
Despite their resilience and adaptability, sea turtles face numerous threats in the modern world. Habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, and accidental capture in fishing gear all contribute to the decline of sea turtle populations. Human activities pose a significant challenge to their survival, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts and sustainable practices to ensure the continued existence of these incredible creatures.
In conclusion, sea turtles are not only ancient mariners but also vital components of marine ecosystems. Their fascinating life cycles, global travels, and essential ecological roles make them a subject of great interest and concern to humans. As stewards of the oceans, it is our responsibility to appreciate the unique characteristics of sea turtles and work towards their conservation, ensuring that these magnificent creatures continue to grace our seas for generations to come.
Image credit: https://www.worldwildlife.org/species/sea-turtle
A reflection on my time as a tree planter
Blog Post 5:
This summer, I worked a s a tree planter in northern New Brunswick. My decision to immerse myself in this experience was driven by a desire to reconnect with nature, disconnect from the digital realm, and to discover the extent of my physical and mental resilience. This experience has transformed my perspective on nature and its profound impact on mental well-being more than I thought it ever could.
Spending so much time in the wilderness, removed from the noise of social media, hustle culture, and the rush of society, I was able to focus more on my own thoughts without being interrupted by the opinions of other’s. Spending so much time alone with my thoughts forced me to confront and observe the ways in which my thought patterns may be detrimental or beneficial to my overall well-being. The absence of notifications, the pressure of deadlines, and the stressors from everyday life allowed my mind to wander, explore, and feel a great sense of gratitude for many aspects of my daily life I had previously overlooked.
Near the end of my contract, I had a realization that I could actually tolerate more physical discomfort and pain than I thought, and I was able to plant more trees per day in the last two weeks than any of the days before. I knew going into the summer that tree planting would be both a physical and mental challenge, but what I did not expect is for the mental aspect to be the most difficult part. Over the course of the tree planting season, I saw many planters quit and go home. Even though everyone had some kind of physical injury throughout the season, I think the reason that ultimately led to people quitting was because of the mental challenges of this job.
Beyond the physical and mental trials, my time tree planting granted me a profound connection to the natural world. I had the chance to observe many different animals each day such as moose, dear, bears, snakes, frogs, and voles. I enjoyed watching the changes in the environment as all of the flora and fauna transitioned from spring to summer.
This experience also highlighted the power nature has to bring people together. Overcoming challenges together has a unique and powerful way of creating meaningful connections with others and I made many friends who I will have for years to come.
My summer spent tree planting was a transformative chapter in my relationship with nature and my understanding of its profound impact on mental health. I was reminded of the importance of spending time in nature, disconnecting from the digital world, and embracing discomfort as a path to growth.
Interpreting nature through art
Blog post 4: Who are you to interpret nature through art? How do you interpret “the gift of beauty”?
The act of interpreting nature through art is a deeply personal and profound endeavor that transcends individual identity and societal norms. It involves capturing the essence of the natural world and conveying it through artistic expression.
Nature has long served as a muse for artists across cultures and centuries. The act of interpreting nature through art is not limited to a specific group or individual. Nature is a source of inspiration for everyone, regardless of their background or identity.
Artists, through their unique lenses and creative processes, translate the beauty and complexity of nature into various forms - paintings, sculptures, poems, music, and more. This diversity of interpretation enriches our collective understanding of the natural world, allowing us to appreciate its multifaceted beauty from different angles.
While interpretation of nature through art is open to all, expertise and mastery can enhance the depth and sophistication of such interpretations. Artists who dedicate years to perfecting their craft may offer unique insights and nuances that enrich our understanding of nature's beauty.
It is important to recognize that indigenous people have maintained profound connections with nature for centuries often depicted through art. Their interpretations often stem from ancestral wisdom and deep-rooted relationships with the land. Recognizing and respecting indigenous interpretations of nature through art is essential for cultural preservation and ecological awareness.
Chapter 5 our textbook delves into the concept of "the gift of beauty." In the context of interpreting nature through art, the gift of beauty refers to the idea that nature's beauty is a source of inspiration and wonder that is freely given to humanity. Artists, in turn, receive this gift and are tasked with sharing it through their creative endeavors.
The gift of beauty suggests that nature is not a commodity to be owned or controlled but rather a source of abundance that invites us to engage with it. Artists, as recipients of this gift, have a responsibility to honor and reciprocate it by creating art that conveys the beauty and complexity of the natural world. This perspective aligns with the idea that nature is a source of intrinsic value, and art serves as a bridge between humans and the natural world.
Art has the power to deepen our connection with nature, foster ecological awareness, and celebrate the beauty of the world around us. As I continue to explore the relationship between art and nature, I think it is important to embrace the idea that interpreting nature is a gift that belongs to all, and it is through our collective creativity that we can truly appreciate and preserve the wonders of the natural world.
Privilege & Nature Interpretation
Blog Post 3 : What role does “privilege” play in nature interpretation? Please include your working definition of privilege.
To me, privilege is the set of unearned advantages and opportunities afforded to individuals based on their social identity. In my case, being white, middle-class, and attending university in Canada has granted me certain privileges. These privileges include access to quality education, economic stability, and a level of social acceptance that others may not experience to the same degree. Privilege can significantly influence how we interpret and interact with nature.
Privilege often determines our access to natural spaces. People with more financial stability have the resources to visit national parks, go on hiking trips, or enjoy outdoor activities regularly. This access allows them to develop a deeper connection with nature and foster a greater appreciation for it.
Attending university has provided me with opportunities to learn about the environment and the importance of conservation. Many individuals from marginalized backgrounds may not have the same access to environmental education, leading to knowledge gaps and less awareness about ecological issues.
Environmental activism is predominantly led by individuals who possess certain privileges as other do not have the time or resources to contribute. This lack of diversity can result in a limited perspective on environmental issues, as the concerns and experiences of marginalized communities are often overlooked. Those with privilege often have greater influence in shaping conservation policies and initiatives. Their voices are more likely to be heard and taken seriously by policymakers disproportionally to others.
Recognizing our privilege is the first step towards more inclusive and equitable nature interpretation. Taking the time to listen to the experiences and perspectives of individuals from diverse backgrounds is crucial, especially with the climate crisis that continues to evolve. Engaging in conversations and seeking out resources that broaden your understanding of the intersection between privilege and nature is also an important when it comes to nature interpretation. It is important to continue to encourage inclusivity in environmental organizations, educational institutions, and conservation efforts.
For those with socioeconomic privilege, using your privilege to advocate for positive change and speak out against environmental injustices will help to create a more equitable and sustainable future for all. Acknowledging our privilege is a crucial step towards fostering a more inclusive and equitable approach to nature interpretation. By actively working to address and mitigate the disparities created by privilege, we can build a more just and sustainable relationship with the environment for future generations.
Exploring Various Nature Interpretation Roles – Blog 2
My ideal role as an environmental interpreter would occur in a classroom or in the form of a guided tour, whether indoors in a gallery/museum or outdoors in a conservation area or other natural spaces. Combining both a classroom aspect and immersive learning via a guided tour would be the most beneficial method of interpretation for me. It would ensure I provided a fantastic interpretation to all types of learners.
Benefits from a classroom setting include having a space where the learners can get comfortable, take notes, and actively engage in the material being presented by an interpreter. A classroom setting also allows the interpreter to benefit from using items such as a projector to show images and videos and highlight the most essential points of their interpretation using text. Lectures before a guided tour can support the auditory and visual learning styles that best suit some learners. Classroom space can support lessons and serves as a venue for hands-on learning by setting up various stations. I still remember the hands-on labs from geography classes where I could touch and interact with the different soil levels ranging from sand, silt, and clay, or my interactive rock kit that allowed me to identify specific characteristics that different rock types obtain. With these methods, the interpreters can also benefit if they are active learners since they are responsible for successfully relaying information to their audience.
Guided tours are another method that can be used by environmental interpreters, which could be done outdoors at a conservation area, provincial or national parks, nature conservancy areas, or even at a local park! Some of these areas have nature centers, which are indoor areas with displays to look at and materials to handle, which are later explained by an interpreter or with written text. On top of that, a guide can interpret nature by leading a group through trails and describing details about the plant and animal species present, the outdoor environment itself, and the benefits nature provides; for example, some trees can provide syrup in the ideal season. Leading a guided group can also allow for open discussion and information outside of the written presentation to be brought up, allowing all types of learners to engage with the materials presented. Environmental interpretation can also happen indoors in museums, which pairs guidance and explanations by an interpreter and includes visual displays of information. Rather than just reading information, portrayal using artistic or realistic diagrams can help relay information to an audience.
Podcasting is another method that allows environmental interpretation to occur and has gained popularity in recent years. During COVID, podcasting was a great way for auditory learners to take in information while remaining at home, driving, doing work, walking, and so much more. The increased accessibility through media can allow for information to reach a wide range of audiences and listeners. YouTube videos or video podcasts can pair auditory and visual learning together to increase engagement and enable people to absorb information via different routes. I am more than excited to gain knowledge about nature interpretation via podcasting in this course, as this may be a role I’d seek in the future!
Nature interpretation can occur almost anywhere, with some of my favourite methods of interpretation being guided tours, interactive displays in a classroom setting, and podcasting. Nature interpretation can occur in a wide range of delivery options and can support various types of learning styles all at once. I would say that I am a hands-on, visual learner… what interpretation methods support your learning styles?
Hi there,
I loved reading your blog and learning about your dream position as an environmental interpreter. Working in a classroom or leading tours are both worthwhile endeavours. The environment of museums is also good; sharing your expertise of nature interpretation while being surrounded by objects of natural history would be a great role to take on. Having a learning setting is undoubtedly a benefit to engaging in the content, and I appreciated reading how you outlined the advantages of working in a classroom. Regarding the importance of experiential learning in the classroom, I agree. A student's capacity to engage in laboratories is also advantageous for their learning. I was especially intrigued by your decision to include guided tours; I completely agree that they are advantageous and educate visitors about various plant and animal species. The opportunity to observe the creatures up close is equally exciting since it gives people a close encounter with the natural world.
I was also curious about your opinions on podcasting. I never considered that particular kind of environmental interpretation before. I agree that listening to podcasts is an excellent technique for auditory learners to learn new knowledge. They are also enjoyable when one's attention must be diverted, like while driving, for instance. I can speak for myself when I say that working on tasks while listening to a podcast. Podcasting is very interesting yet successful strategy for pursuing a profession in nature interpretation. Reading your blog and learning about your perspective on nature interpretation was enjoyable. Despite also learning visually, I find that hands-on learning is more successful for me. I appreciate you sharing, and I'm excited to read your upcoming blogs.
Morgan
Hello Morgan!
I love how you discussed different learning styles and haw a mix of classroom time and a guided tour would support the learning styles of a wide variety of individuals. I also agree with you that hands on experiences are often more memorable, and I think this is especially important when exposing kids to possible future careers in the sciences. Personally, I am a visual learner as I find visual aids capture my attention and help me retain information longer. When I see diagrams, graphs, or illustrations, concepts become clearer, and I can grasp relationships between ideas more readily. I also tend to create mental images to remember facts and to understand challenging topics in school.
I have also started to listen to more podcasts in the past few years as they have continued to grow in popularity and number. You brought up an interesting point about how podcasting with regards to nature interpretation is relatively new compared to other media sources such as books, news, and blogs. I am interested to see how nature interpretation podcasts continue to evolve and grow in the upcoming years. If you are looking for a new nature related podcast, the podcast Nerdy about Nature is a great podcast that discusses many cool projects and science that is happening right now in the nature lover’s community.
My ideal role as an environmental interpreter
Blog Post 2: Describe your ideal role of environmental interpreter. What might it entail? Where might it be? What skills might you need? (Keep these all-in mind as you begin to work on your assignments – tailor these to that ideal job!)
One topic I have always been passionate about is environmental conservation, specifically how anthropogenic activities are affecting marine life. I first encountered information on this topic when I was in elementary school. I remember seeing documentaries about environmental issues such as the great pacific garbage patch, microplastics in the oceans, melting sea ice, and marine oil spills. My ideal role as an environmental interpreter would be related to marine life conservation and research and would therefore be located in a costal town/city.
One species I am particularly interested in is sea turtles. I have always found their life cycle fascinating; how all the baby sea turtles emerge from the sand by the hundreds and make their journey to the sea. They later return to the same beach or one close by to where they were born to nest and lay their eggs multiple times per year. Part of the reason that most sea turtle species are so endangered is because of the distance and variety of habitats they require to successfully reproduce. This is also why there are many conservation and education programs that focus on preserving the nesting habitats of sea turtles. To protect and manage sea turtle nesting beaches, there are a variety of organizations that are working together such as governments implementing new regulations, community volunteer organizations, and larger conservation organizations. With all of these different organizations that are working on sea turtle conservation efforts comes many different job opportunities related to environmental interpretation.
Some skills I will need to land a job as an environmental interpreter in this field are environmental knowledge, communication skills, interpersonal skills, and public speaking skills. An ability to explain complex ecological concepts in simple, relatable terms will be important when presenting information to the public. I will need to be able to make complex information accessible and engaging to diverse audiences, including children, adults, and people with varying levels of background knowledge. It will also be important to be enthusiastic about marine biology to help inspire others to care for and protect our oceans. All of these skills, plus a solid background in marine conservation, will help me on my path to my ideal job as an environmental interpreter.
Blog 1: My Relationship With Nature and Sense of Place Within it
Week 1 Prompt: Describe your current relationship with nature. How has this developed/evolved? Who offered you “a sense of place,” as described in our textbook?
I grew up amongst the rolling hills, creeks forests and farms of Caledon Ontario. Since I was young I have always felt connected to nature, and I account this largely to the setting in which I grew up. Instead of street names, malls, houses, shops and recreation centers, my neighborhood was instead conservation areas, farms and undeveloped land. My friends and I would go for long bike rides and hikes and play in the woods growing up. I think this is where my current relationship with nature has had its roots.
As time went on I became busy, I trained 22hrs a week as a competitive swimmer, went to a highschool in the city and eventually made my way to the university of guelph. Nature and my time in it got further away. I missed it and have since realized the profound impact it has on my well being, so I started to find my way back. I got into triathlons after quitting swimming and started to trail run and bike. To me there is no greater feeling of freedom than moving through outdoor space, particularly one of nature, running and biking re introduced this to me. I then had the chance to work at a mountain top tea house in Banff where I lived without electricity and amenities for a summer. I truly felt I knew the place. By the time I left, I could name every mountain, valley, river, identify countless trees, birds, plants and, having just completed a geomorphology course, understand the topography of the landscape. The friendships I made that summer were unmeasurable in their meaning, and I would say these came about from the full immersion in time, place and nature as well as from the lack of modern distractions and amenities. The level of understanding I gained for that place really intensified my relationship with nature.
The following summer I worked as a park ranger in Terrace British Columbia, we worked 8 days on and 6 days off. During our shifts we would do a combination of backcountry maintenance, public outreach and communication as well as ecological monitoring. Spending days camping in the backcountry at first was scary to me. I feared the large wildlife, moose, bears, cougars etc. However by the end of the summer that fear was replaced by respect, understanding and a sense of security and belonging. To be able to walk through the old growth rainforest, see endangered species, learn cultural histories, and understand the ecology and relationships between species of plants, animals and fungi was eye opening. I feel more at risk in cities and suburbs than I ever have in the great outdoors. When doing public outreach I got to address people's concerns and curiosities about the parks I was working in. There were so many people who had no clue about bear safety or the vital role of predators in our ecosystems. Being able to help explain ecosystems and their importance, as well as, how to take safety precautions to enjoy the outdoors without fear and instead respect, further evolved my relationship with nature and my sense of place in it.
On a different note, I have always had a fear of death, I myself am not religious, and it was in my immersion with nature that I found a healthy peace and respect for it instead. To respond to who offered me a sense of place, I would say it was all the people who helped to shape my understanding of nature as well as those who provided me with the opportunities to explore on my own; there are a lot of people and places that deserve credit. My family when I was young, those I met in the jobs I worked, and the opportunities that came my way present a brief summary.
Enjoy this gif of a bear scratching its back:
Hey Emily!
First of all, love the gif of the bear scratching its back!
It was interesting to hear about your experience growing up in the countryside in Caledon and how that impacted your connection with nature. Sounds like an amazing setting to grow up in! I lived in a suburb in Ottawa when I was younger, but I was still able to have many experiences exploring nature in my childhood. I wonder how much growing up in somewhere more rural would have affected my relationship with nature and sense of place. It’s interesting to consider how the environments we grew up in can shape our lives by influencing our decision-making during milestone events such as deciding what university to attend or where to live.
I think I experienced a journey similar to yours when it comes to the evolution of my relationship with nature over the years. In the past few years, I have realized how beneficial spending time in nature is for my mental health and overall wellbeing. Last fall, I joined the University of Guelph outdoors club in order to meet like-minded people and I definitely made some long-lasting friends. Recently, I have been working on being more present while observing nature in my daily activities and have come to really appreciate all the local biodiversity we have here in Guelph.
Your experiences working as a park ranger in BC and at the mountain top treehouse in Banff sound incredible! This past summer I went tree planting in New Brunswick, and I am definitely feeling very inspired to try out a new job in the outdoors this coming summer!
My relationship with nature
Blog Post 1: Describe your current relationship with nature. How has this developed/evolved? Who offered you “a sense of place,” as described in our textbook?
My love for and interest in nature started when I was very young. I enjoyed spending time in nature in my childhood and took part in many activities that allowed me to explore and grow my love and appreciation for the natural environment. I would often spend time after school with friends at a nearby stream where we would collect different plants, rocks, and insects. I was also surrounded by a lot of media that sparked my interest in biodiversity and how anthropogenic activities are contributing to the climate crisis. Some examples include National Geographic magazines and the Planet Earth documentaries.
I have always been interested and passionate about reducing human impacts on the environment and I participated in many climate activism and education clubs throughout elementary and high school. The adult figures who led these clubs helped to shape my sense of place in the world of environmental conservation and ignited my appreciation of the amazing biodiversity that surrounds us every day. These experiences led me to apply to the environmental science program at Guelph and greatly contributed to how I ended up hear in the 5th year of my degree.
Throughout university, I began to appreciate other ways in which spending time outside can have a positive impact on my life. As with everyone else, the covid pandemic led to me spending much of my time inside and alone at my house. This social isolation had a very negative impact on my mental health and overall wellbeing. One habit that helped me in this time was to go for a walk outside and spend some time disconnected from technology but more connected with nature. When in nature I feel at peace and a great sense of gratitude for all the natural beauty this earth has to offer.
Last fall I decided to join the Outdoors Club here at the university to meet more people with similar interests to me. I went on two trips last year which allowed me to make many new friends who I continue to keep in touch with today. All the amazing people I have met through the outdoors club greatly contributed to my sense of place and allowed me to find a community of people in university who share the same love of the outdoors.
This past summer, I decided to go tree planting in New Brunswick. From this experience I gained a greater connection and respect for the abundance of forests we have here in Canada. I also saw the power spending time in nature has in bringing people together. Over the ten weeks I was there, I made friends that felt like we had known each other for many years.
My current relationship with nature continues to evolve and grow. Recently, I have been working on being more present while observing nature that I pass by in my daily walks to and from campus. I am working on letting my curiosity drive my activities in nature as a did when I was a child, and this has led me to feel an immense amount of gratitude and appreciation for all of the local biodiversity here in Guelph.
