The Future of Conservation Is Human and Relational

Conservation has often been about fencing humans out. The future may be about inviting the right humans in.

David Attenborough has brought attention to the need to conserve the habitats of all creatures great and small. However what was once done as a species specific task now needs modern thinking. Conservation is better when done on a relational ecosystem basis, including humans. Where once humans were kept out of the forest or the special meadow it is of more importance to include the right humans. The ones who appreciate the interaction of plant and soil, trees and animals. Who want to be part of the system rather than witnesses to something separate from themselves.

This evolution builds on the wider call for a new kind of land stewardship in a depleted world.

Humans have always been part of nature, it is only recent society over a few hundred years which has separated humans from the land. Hunter gatherers worked with nature following herds and eating the plants, insects and fungi which were available in different places and at different times. Before that the tie was even tighter, with people working with the spirits of the air, water, land and animals themselves. To ask for help and to assist themselves. Conservation did not need to exist because there was such a strong partnership between humans and nature. This is what we need to aspire to for ethical land preservation.

Regenerative land projects such as community funded sanctuaries offer one practical framework for restoring this partnership.

Regenerative land projects like Elemental Foundation have a key role to play. To act as inspiration and thought leaders for others who want to do the same. The modern conservation model is one where all things are brought into harmony. Whilst this is not without its challenges - particularly from the expectations of people outside the projects it is a marker of ethical land preservation. Where the balance and fertility of the soil is brought about for its own good, rather than to profit from it. Balance creates a protection whilst still obeying the laws of nature. Not everything can live a long and happy life - such is the cycle of life.

Relational stewardship is where people work alongside the lands needs. Crops can still be grown and used or eaten but whilst respecting the natural environment. When working on the land people are known to feel lighter, less stressed, less lonely even. Conservation of land is inextricably linked to wellbeing.

The biological connection between nature and nervous system regulation is explored further in Why Silence and Stillness Are Biological Requirements Not Luxuries.

Welcoming the right people to regenerative land projects like Elemental Foundation ensures their continuing success. We gather in small groups, to reflect, to act and to enjoy watching Spring turn into Summer, then Autumn into Winter. Postcards of events and general happenings at the Foundation will be shown on the community portal to act as reminders of all that is going on. The seed that you planted became a seedling then a sapling and finally a tree growing its own seeds.

You can read more about how this community conservation structure operates in What Is a Community Funded Sanctuary and How Does It Work.

We are forming a collective for peace and for nature. Away from mass tourism yet including many people in community to combat loneliness and hopelessness. The future is both tomorrow and next century. The Foundation expands as time goes on. From the initial location to another, then into a movement of 10 across Europe and beyond. A network of conservation and preservation of human and natural resources and needs. Working together through enthusiasm and willingness to flourish in a harsh world.

Each site becomes part of a growing movement rooted in stewardship, sanctuary and relational conservation.