There is evidence that since the 1950’s there has been a world-wide cultural shift away from nature. Despite the mountains of evidence pointing to the values of engaging with nature, respect and concern for the natural world appears to be in decline.
Our increasingly busy and internet-connected lifestyles it seems means we are more concerned about the latest app we need to download than pausing a moment to listen to some bird-song.
There are arguments that this disconnect with nature begins at school age. In 2002, a study in the UK determined that an average 8-year-old British child could identify 78% of all Pokémon characters, but only 53% of common British wildlife species.
Often, trees are the focus of the natural environment – they are large and long-lived and many have a sense of presence. The existence of trees in an urban situation can inspire either a sense of reverence or a sense of apprehension in the community while it might be said, many an urban-dweller is not bothered either way.
In this rapidly changing world, many of us are feeling troubled and at risk. Trees and nature are capable of providing a sense of composure and tranquillity. We should look to trees to help make sense of our busy lifestyles.
Trees are a reminder to slow down and tune into the natural world. Trees are part of our past. They are in the present and they will be part of our future too.
PS: City of Boroondara (Hawthorn, Kew, Camberwell…) Tree Protection Local Law – LINK – read it and weep. When you get to point 17 Offences, one “penalty unit” (set by Victorian Gov’t) = $180.
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