A Reflection on my Environmental Values

 Growing up in urban areas, with my time outdoors being spent more in urban parks than in vaste, mountainous areas, I often thought of nature and the environment as a distant concept that I did not feel very connected to. It was not until I began my journey of studying environmental science and studies that I rethought my relationship with and definition of the environment to one that I believe is more holistic and inclusive. Now, I see the environment as a space where people live, play, work and learn, and I value an approach to environmental care and protection that prioritizes collaborative commitment to allowing all inhabitants to thrive. Recognizing that my approach to environmental care is largely oriented around humans 

Because of my own exposure to the environment as a child and how important broadening my definition of the outdoors has been to me in terms of developing a sense of place, I am particularly interested in urban green space as a means of community-building in urban areas. I am motivated by broadening access to green spaces because I firmly believe in its capacity to bring people together and motivate care and empathy between people, and for the earth. Additionally, I have spent some of my recent years moving around and living internationally which has further inspired my deeply held value of collaboration deeply and its importance in creating sustainable environmental stewardship. Because of this value, I am also invested in international environmental politics and creating collaborative spaces for policy-making where a range of voices and perspectives are represented, uplifted and accounted for. 

Ultimately, I recognize that my ethical approach to the environment is largely oriented around humans, leaning more anthropocentric. This approach is likely influenced by my exposure to ideas around environmental approaches that leave out human interactions being exclusive. As I continue to develop my own understanding of the environment, I strive to further find a balance between including and accounting for humans and other species to enhance inclusivity. 

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