It is difficult to deny that the relationship between human beings and the rest of the natural world is a tremendous factor in what got us into this mess in the first place. If we still truly respected the rest of the natural world and if we fully appreciated our position as part of that world, would we treat rainforests as obstacles to development and deal natural resources as commodities?

To adequately address the causes of climate change, is it essential that today’s young people develop a strong, positive relationship with nature? And what form of relationship is needed? What role does a connection to nature play in providing inspiration and joy as we face a future with climate change? How do children connect to nature? What happens when this connection is not nourished? And is it possible to connect to nature in urban settings?

This section will explore all of these questions and more.