Nature, Climate, & the Living Environment

Six hundred years ago, humans occupied only three percent of the earth's surface. That's where they lived, worked, and grew food. These days, we need half the earth's surface to do just that. Nature has given way to people and food production, and this has major consequences for our ecosystem. In the world of Nature, Climate, & the living Environment, you can work on preserving and developing nature in harmony with our society.

Nature conservation & biodiversity 

Many plant and animal species are disappearing. This is partly due to climate change and pollution. We use our soil too intensively and the supply of raw materials is finite. When people use more space, less space is left for plants and animals. That leads to a decline in biodiversity.

There are many ways to make more space for nature. You could be a conservationist who focuses on sustaining the natural world. Or a farmer who plays a large role in preserving nature and ecosystems. Sixty percent of the Dutch landscape is managed by farmers and growers. Will you help make nature conservation part of business operations on our farms?

People who live in an urban environment can also contribute to nature. Gardens and green roofs provide space for insects that, in turn, pollinate plants. That is also how we maintain biodiversity. Do you want to take charge of planting more greenery in cities and in people’s homes?

Nature is an important source of raw materials for beautiful and functional items. Clothes, furniture, packaging, fuel, and all sorts of other things are made with raw materials from nature. But nature is becoming polluted and raw materials are running out. Will you think of clever ways to reduce the burden on nature?

Nature & recreation

Nature is not only functional, but also beautiful and calming. Nature renews our energy. Forests and peat meadows invite you to relax and enjoy the silence, while other landscapes may inspire you to move, play, or work out. But not everyone has the luxury of a nature reserve around the corner. Would you like to be involved in developing city parks and forests so more people can enjoy nature close to home?

When you work for nature, you contribute to people's health and the future of our planet

Nature & health 

Being around nature is good for your health. Trees and plants convert CO₂ into oxygen, and clean air is good for us. Nature is also an important means of collecting and removing rainwater. That is important in times of flooding or drought.

It’s also important to make nature a part of our growing cities. Trees and plants provide cooling that helps prevent heat stress. The ground beneath your feet is also part of nature. Healthy soil provides a healthy environment and forms a fertile basis for the production of our food. Will you search for ways to stay healthy with the help of nature?

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The Green Worlds are created in collaboration with Colland
(Photo source: Shutterstock - Design images: Imagro)