Culture and sustainability are closely linked.
Populations that are still strongly in touch with their roots and traditions are sustainable because they live respecting the environment around them.
While the West is now used to leaving its mark and occupying the space it thinks it deserves in its habitat, other peoples in the world adapt and live with the times, means and quantities that the nature around them allows.
Here are six peoples who still put nature at the center of their lives.
1. Indigenous peoples
Peoples profoundly put at risk by the impact of the West, which advances relentlessly. The deforestation of their forests and the oppression of these peoples are two very current issues that concern various places in the world.
The indigenous people recognize themselves as guests and members of the nature that surrounds them, they love it because it provides them with everything they need: food, water, medicines.
Forest time is their time.
The health of the forest, their health.
2. Japanese Shintoists
Shintoism is a Japanese religion that identifies a divine expression in every natural manifestation. We talk about natural polytheism, where every natural creature or object is sacred.
The Balinese have a strong spiritual connection with nature. Their particular form of Hinduism, combined with local traditions, often involves offerings and rituals performed in natural settings such as rice terraces and sacred forests.
The indigenous Maori of New Zealand have a deep connection to the land and sea. Their cultural traditions and art often reflect their relationship with nature.
These cultures, including the Sami people, have a strong connection to the natural environment, particularly in Arctic regions. Traditional practices such as reindeer herding and folklore highlight their connection with nature.
6. Hawaiians (USA)
Hawaiian culture is closely linked to the land and ocean. The concept of aloha goes beyond a simple greeting, it represents love, affection and respect for the natural world.
Today more than ever we must witness the transition from an anthropocentric vision to a biocentric vision, in which human beings and the Earth live in perfect harmony .