This week’s reading reminded me of something I came across on the internet a while ago—every year, hundreds of tons of apples rot on farms. These apples can’t be sold in the market because doing so would lower prices too much. This surplus fruit is left to decay to protect the future profits of farmers and fruit manufacturers or distributors, even though world hunger continues to affect millions of people and their livelihoods. Seeing pictures of vast piles of apples left to rot made my heart sink. It made me wonder: at what point did we begin valuing monetary profit over the respect and stewardship we owe to nature?
As I read Kallis’ chapter "Building for Change from the Ground Up," I found her ideas on backsourcing to be deeply resonant with this dilemma. Just as large production companies control the fate of excess apples, much of society seems disconnected from nature. How often do we step outside, plant a tree, and feel a sense of satisfaction from engaging with the earth? Once seen as valuable and fulfilling, this kind of labour is now overlooked because everything we need is readily available in the marketplace. As a result, we miss out on the joy, fulfillment, and valuable lessons that come from working with and appreciating nature firsthand.
Kallis suggests that reintegrating gardens and natural spaces into our communities could help restore this lost connection. I wholeheartedly agree. By making an effort to nurture our surroundings, we can revive the energy and vitality of nature in our modern lives. With time and dedication, educators can also play a critical role in shaping the minds of future generations, teaching them to appreciate and care for the natural world. Through such efforts, we may begin to shift our focus from profit to a more harmonious relationship with the environment.
No comments:
Post a Comment