kiranearthed, Author at Earthed https://www.earthed.co/blog/author/kiranearthed/ Learn from and for nature. Wed, 04 Dec 2024 13:47:17 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 https://www.earthed.co/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/cropped-earthed-favicon-32x32.png kiranearthed, Author at Earthed https://www.earthed.co/blog/author/kiranearthed/ 32 32 Earthed Supports Black Nature Heroes at EMPOCA https://www.earthed.co/blog/earthed-partner-with-empoca-to-empower-black-nature-heroes/ Mon, 02 Dec 2024 17:01:08 +0000 https://www.earthed.co/?p=56326 Through Earthed's partnership with EMPOCA, we hope that more young black people become visible in the outdoor industry and feel represented in their roles as guardians of our planet. To dig deeper into our partnership, we spoke with CEO Anthony Owosekun to explore the poignancy of EMPOCA and his vision for a more representative future.

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We are grateful to be part of EMPOCA’s Black Nature Heroes programme, where nature, education, and empowerment intersect. EMPOCA is the only organisation in Europe whose sole mission is to reconnect the black youth with nature.

Together as committed partners, Earthed hopes more young black people become visible in the outdoor industry and feel represented in their roles as guardians of our planet. To dig deeper into our partnership, we spoke with CEO Anthony Owosekun to explore the poignancy of EMPOCA and his vision for a more representative future.

Earthed: “Anthony, EMPOCA is a cause close to our heart. Can you tell us the inspiration behind starting it?”

Anthony: “The inspiration behind EMPOCA came from a deeply personal place. Growing up as a Black child, I rarely saw people who looked like me in outdoor spaces, let alone in leadership roles connected to nature and environmental work. As a young boy in the early 90s, I was the only Black boy scout in my group and at the camps I attended in northern Germany. While I found solace in nature and loved the experiences, I always felt the absence of representation and a sense of true belonging. As an experiential educator and social worker later in life, I witnessed how transformative nature experiences can be for children and teens, especially for those navigating systemic barriers like racism. Yet, I also saw a lack of access and representation in these spaces for Black communities. EMPOCA was born to bridge this gap—by creating positive outdoor experiences specifically designed to foster leadership, confidence, and a deep connection to nature for Black youth across the DACH region.”

Earthed: “How do you see Earthed supporting Black Nature Heroes on their educational journey, to deepen their connection with nature?

Anthony: “Earthed is a powerful ally in this mission. By offering nature skills and a platform to celebrate traditional and indigenous knowledge, Earthed provides Black Nature Heroes with tools to not only learn but to feel deeply rooted in their connection to the earth. Through this partnership, the participants of our first leadership program will gain access to nature teachers and community experiences that reinforce the understanding that nature belongs to everyone, and we all have a role in nurturing it. Earthed’s celebration of diverse knowledge holders will also uplift the voices and wisdom of Black communities, helping to dismantle the systemic erasure of Black contributions to environmentalism.”

Anthony Owosekun pictured in a sunny forest. Anthony is the CEO and founder of the charity EMPOCA.

“Regeneration isn’t just about ecosystems; it’s about healing relationships with the land and each other. For me, it’s a future where Black children see themselves reflected in the environmental sector”

Earthed: “What does a regenerated future look like for you, and Black Nature Heroes?

Anthony: “A regenerated future is one where Black communities are not just participants in nature conservation but leaders. It’s a future where access to green spaces, environmental education and protection is no longer a privilege but a right. For Black Nature Heroes, this means cultivating a generation of environmental stewards who are empowered to protect the planet and redefine how we care for it—both through traditional practices and innovative solutions. Regeneration isn’t just about ecosystems; it’s about healing relationships with the land and each other. For me, it’s a future where Black children see themselves reflected in the environmental sector, whether that’s in leadership, policy-making, or grassroots action.”

Earthed: “What can individuals, charities, and businesses in the environmental sector do to support Black Nature Heroes to feel a sense of belonging and representation in the sector?

Anthony: “The first step is to actively create inclusive and welcoming spaces. This means ensuring representation not just in marketing but also in leadership and decision-making. Charities and businesses can collaborate with grassroots organizations like EMPOCA to design programs that are culturally responsive and relevant to Black communities. Offering funding, mentorship opportunities, and platforms for visibility is crucial. It’s also important to challenge stereotypes about who belongs in nature and to dismantle barriers to access. Ultimately, the environmental sector needs to listen, learn, and act with intention to foster a sense of belonging for Black Nature Heroes.”

Earthed: “How do you visualise the coming years in Earthed’s partnership with EMPOCA?

Anthony: “I see our partnership as a growing, symbiotic relationship where we inspire and learn from each other. Together, we can expand the reach of Black Nature Heroes, bringing Earthed’s incredible resources into our leadership programs and camps. I envision co-hosted workshops, shared storytelling initiatives, and collaborations that amplify Black voices in the environmental sector. Over the next few years, we can create ripple effects that not only empower individuals but also shape the environmental movement to be more inclusive, diverse, and equitable.”

Click here to support Anthony and EMPOCA, and transform representation and belonging for the black youth in the climate space.

If you would like to speak to someone at Earthed about a potential partnership, please get in touch.

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Leaps in Fashion: A New Standard in Sustainability https://www.earthed.co/blog/a-new-standard-in-fashion-sustainability-dirt-charity-arizona-muse/ Thu, 26 Sep 2024 16:04:04 +0000 https://www.earthed.co/?p=24271 Each of us makes a conscious choice every day with what we wear, but how often do we consider the environmental impact of our wardrobe? Thankfully, DIRT Charity is making waves to address this pressing issue by driving systemic change with the introduction of regenerative standards in the fashion textiles industry.

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By DIRT Charity

The fashion industry is responsible for around 10% of global carbon emissions and is the second-largest consumer of the world’s water supply, according to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Each of us makes a conscious choice every day with what we wear, but how often do we consider the environmental impact of our wardrobe? Thankfully, DIRT Charity is making waves to address this pressing issue by driving systemic change with the introduction of regenerative standards in the fashion textiles industry.

On September 24, 2024, DIRT Charity, in collaboration with the Biodynamic Federation Demeter International (BFDI), launched the Demeter Textile Standards — a groundbreaking certification system designed to revolutionise how fashion is produced, processed, and disposed of. These standards cover ten key raw materials, including cotton, wool, silk, leather, and emerging alternatives like mushroom leather. The goal is to ensure every step of the supply chain positively impacts the environment, from sustainable farming practices to compostable end-of-life disposal.

image from DIRTY Charity from photographer Nicci McClarron, shows two women standing in icelandic moorland, holding a large ribbon of fabric over a stream

Unlike existing certifications, the Demeter Textile Standards take a holistic approach. The standards certify that garments are produced in a way that enhances soil health, reduces water usage, eliminates toxic chemicals, and prioritizes fair treatment of workers. Each part of the garment, from the fabrics to the dyes and even the buttons, is held to strict environmental and social guidelines. The aim is to create a truly regenerative fashion industry that not only reduces its environmental footprint but actively restores ecosystems.

DIRT Charity’s founder, Arizona Muse, highlights the importance of this shift: “We recognize the urgent need for more sustainable practices in the fashion industry. By collaborating with Demeter, we are
paving the way for a more environmentally conscious and responsible approach to textile production. Now all we need from you, the consumers, is to demand the Demeter label on your clothes.”

As consumers, we have the power to demand change, and with the Demeter Textile Standards, we can choose garments that meet the highest environmental and ethical standards. By transforming the fashion supply chain, DIRT Charity is paving the way for fashion to become part of the solution, not the problem.

Arizona Muse, founder of DIRT Chairty, accepts a Sustainable Fashion Award, 2024.

For more information on DIRT Charity’s collaboration with Demeter and the new textile standards, please visit www.dirt.charity/demeter-standards.

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Which Seeds to Sow in September https://www.earthed.co/blog/which-seeds-to-sow-in-september/ Thu, 05 Sep 2024 15:18:23 +0000 https://www.earthed.co/?p=30950 September is a crucial time to sow seeds if you're preparing your garden for a bountiful winter harvest. Read this blog, produced in collaboration with Vital Seeds, and to learn which flower and vegetable seeds to sow this September. Whether you’re sowing for you and your family, or planning a guerrilla gardening mission to help your community, you're contributing to a healthier, more vibrant environment for both you and local wildlife.

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By Kiran Dhall, in collaboration with Vital Seeds

September is a crucial time to sow seeds if you want to make the most of the winter and early spring months. Preparing your garden for a bountiful winter harvest or planning a guerrilla gardening mission to bring neglected urban spaces to life can contribute to a healthier, more vibrant environment for both you and local wildlife.

We teamed up with our friends at Vital Seeds to explore the best seeds to plant this September across the UK and Northern Hemisphere. With their expert advice and high-quality seeds, you’ll be ready to make an impact. These seed suggestions are your go-to guide, so click the links below to shop seeds and start your gardening adventure.

Flower Seeds to Sow in September

Even as the days get shorter, many hardy flower varieties can be sown in September to provide a splash of colour come spring and summer. Here’s what we recommend for your guerrilla gardening project:

Calendula

Bright, bold, and easy to grow, Calendula is a great choice for both beginners and seasoned gardeners. Because of its vibrant brilliant orange and yellow blooms, it’s perfect for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. What’s more, it’s edible, with petals that can be used in salads, and it thrives in poor soil. Scatter the seeds in open, sunny areas, and watch them spread joy throughout your neighborhood.

California Poppy

This drought-tolerant flower is ideal for guerrilla gardeners looking to add a touch of the West Coast to their local streets. California poppies bring vivid orange blooms that are both resilient and easy to maintain, and they’re perfect for neglected spaces. Their low-maintenance beauty makes them a natural choice for brightening up roadside verges or forgotten corners of your town.

Cornflower

Cornflowers are a staple of any wildflower garden, offering striking blue petals that attract bees and other pollinators. Hardy and adaptable, they’ll thrive in rough, disturbed soils, making them ideal for guerrilla gardening projects. Plant them in abandoned lots or along railway tracks for a burst of color come spring.

Nigella

With its delicate, feathery foliage and sky-blue flowers, Nigella adds an ethereal touch to any guerrilla garden. Also known as “Love-in-a-Mist,” this plant is easy to grow, self-seeding, and thrives even in neglected areas. Scatter Nigella seeds in any sunny spot and prepare for beautiful blooms that look like they’re floating in a misty cloud.

Poppy Seeds

If you want to make a bold statement, you can’t go wrong with poppies. Known for their vibrant red petals, these flowers are a symbol of remembrance and resilience. Poppies grow well in poor soil and will come back year after year, making them a fantastic addition to any guerrilla gardening project. Sprinkle them in the cracks of city pavements or across vacant land and let their beauty do the talking.

Vegetable Seeds to Sow in September

September is also the perfect time to sow vegetables that will thrive through autumn and winter, but you might not know where to start. The crops recommended below can provide you with fresh produce in the colder months or be harvested in the early spring. Here’s what to plant:

Asian Greens

Fast-growing and packed with nutrients, Asian greens like pak choi, mustard greens, and mizuna are perfect for cooler weather. Sow them now, and you’ll enjoy a continuous supply of tender leaves for salads, stir-fries, and soups throughout autumn.

Broad Beans

Broad beans are a hardy crop that can be planted in September for an early harvest next spring. They tolerate the colder months well, making them ideal for overwintering. Plant them in well-drained soil, and they’ll reward you with a delicious, protein-rich harvest as the days begin to warm.

Lambs Lettuce

Also known as mache or corn salad, Lamb’s lettuce is a winter-hardy green that can be grown through the colder months. Its tender, nutty-flavored leaves are a wonderful addition to salads and grow well in containers or raised beds.

Lettuce

You can still sow certain varieties of lettuce in September to enjoy a fresh supply of leafy greens well into autumn. Opt for winter-hardy varieties like ‘Winter Gem’ or ‘Arctic King,’ which can withstand colder temperatures and keep your salad bowl full through the frosty months.

Peas

Peas can be sown in September for an early harvest next spring. Choose a winter-hardy variety and plant them in well-prepared soil. As they climb, peas will brighten up your garden or any vertical urban space, all while providing you with sweet, delicious pods in the spring.

Onions

September is the ideal time to plant onions for overwintering. Varieties like ‘Senshyu Yellow’ and ‘Radar’ can be sown now and will develop over the winter for a harvest next summer. Onions are resilient and easy to grow, making them perfect for guerrilla gardening in urban allotments or neglected plots.

Why Sow in September?

Sowing seeds in September is a strategic move. Many thrive when planted in the cooler months. The earlier you get them in the ground, the stronger and more resilient they’ll be. By planting now, you’re setting the stage for a flourishing, healthy ecosystem that supports pollinators and wildlife… while also creating a beautiful environment for people to enjoy!

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, Earthed’s free video classes are taught by world nature leaders. They’ll help you create biodiverse gardens, thriving vegetable patches, and sustainable communities. With expert guidance and a community of fellow gardeners, you’ll have everything you need to grow and make a lasting impact.

Learn more and become a member at Earthed.co to start your journey.

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What Is Guerrilla Gardening? A Concise Guide. https://www.earthed.co/blog/what-is-guerrilla-gardening-a-brief-history-of-reclaiming-our-green-spaces/ Tue, 23 Jul 2024 13:10:40 +0000 https://www.earthed.co/?p=19123 If we turn to the story of how humans have coevolved with our food crops, we will see that the vegetables and grains that exist in the world today are only here because of humans. Different to wild plants, cultivated crops have a history woven so deep into the story of human culture that it is impossible to unpick the characters. For many hundreds and thousands of years, seed saving closed the loop of the farming cycle. Crops were grown, people made selections for the traits they most desired and seeds were saved to start the process again the following year. Because seeds were grown in each region and shared by each community, the fields of the world were a patchwork of different crops, each suited to the soils they grew in and the taste buds of the people eating them.

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By Kiran Dhall

In a world where our populations are booming and cities are expanding, many of us find ourselves surrounded by concrete jungles with little access to nature. Amidst this urban sprawl, a powerful movement is emerging to reclaim and revitalise our green spaces. This grassroots effort transforms neglected areas into vibrant pockets of greenery, bringing together communities and promoting environmental stewardship. Not only does it have the potential to transform neglected space into beautiful spaces, but more often than not they directly impact air quality, build biodiversity, bring joy and community connection.

In this blog, we cover the basics of what guerrilla gardening is, but we also point you in the direction of some essential tools so you can become a guerrilla gardener yourself. Spoiler alert: in our newest (free) challenge with Ellen Miles, you can become a Guerrilla Gardener in 28-days!

What is Guerrilla Gardening?

Guerrilla gardening is a grassroots movement where individuals or groups cultivate plants in neglected, public, or private spaces. It’s an act of environmental activism, aiming to beautify urban areas, grow food, and reclaim unused land for the community, and is often undertaken without seeking permission from councils and governing bodies. Guerrilla gardeners might plant flowers, vegetables, or native species to improve the look and feel of neighbourhoods, build biodiversity, improve air quality and reconnect with nature. You could consider it to be a blend of gardening, art, and protest, transforming cities from grey to green.

The Modern History…

Guerrilla gardening isn’t a new phenomenon. Throughout history, people have taken it upon themselves to retain and restore nature in their surroundings. From ancient agricultural practices to medieval gleaning rights, communities have always sought ways to cultivate and protect their green spaces.

The contemporary guerrilla gardening movement began to take shape in the 1970s, particularly in New York City. The Green Guerrillas, founded by Liz Christy in 1973, transformed vacant lots into community gardens, sparking a global movement. This spirit of reclaiming urban spaces spread worldwide, inspiring similar efforts in cities across the globe.

1973, New York City: The Green Guerrillas start transforming derelict land into gardens, igniting a movement.
1996, London: Richard Reynolds begins guerrilla gardening in his local neighbourhood, eventually founding GuerrillaGardening.org, a global platform for activists.
2004, Los Angeles: Guerrilla gardening gains traction with activists targeting freeway medians and neglected public spaces.
2012, Cape Town: The Cape Town Green Guerrillas start turning abandoned spaces into urban farms and gardens.

Photo: Taken by Ling Gigi, at Yuan Ching Road, Jurong Lake Gardens, Singapore City

Essential Resources…

Guerrilla gardening has inspired numerous projects and publications. Here are a few notable examples and resources:

The Guerrilla Gardening Handbook” by Ellen Miles

Offers practical advice and inspiring stories from around the world. Ellen Miles, a prominent advocate for urban greening, has written several influential books on the subject. Her works provide invaluable insights and practical guidance.

GuerrillaGardening.org: Richard Reynolds’ website offers a wealth of information, from practical tips to global initiatives.

Guerrilla Gardening: A Manualfesto” by David Tracey: A comprehensive guide on how to start your own guerrilla gardening project.

National Park City: Learn about a grassroots movement for everyone making our city greener, healthier and wilder.

Learn to Become a Guerrilla Gardener in 28-Days, with Earthed’s Guerrilla Gardening Challenge

We at Earthed are thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of our Guerrilla Gardening Challenge, in collaboration with the wonderful Ellen Miles. This practical course is hosted online, with 5 live check ins with Ellen and the Earthed team. By the end of the challenge, you will have transformed a neglected corner of your neighbourhood. This live course inspires people and communities to reclaim and transform the neglected corners of their communities, which can have a positive impact on mental and physical health, as well as build positive relationships. Stay tuned for more details on how you can get involved in Earthed’s guerrilla gardening challenge for free!

Guerrilla gardening is more than just planting seeds; it’s about sowing the seeds of change. Join us in this green revolution and help cultivate a more sustainable, beautiful world.

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Restore Nature Now: The Essential Role of Protest in Nature Restoration & Conservation https://www.earthed.co/blog/restore-nature-now-the-essential-role-of-protest-in-nature-stewardship/ Thu, 13 Jun 2024 17:04:06 +0000 https://www.earthed.co/?p=15135 On 22nd June 2024, London will host what aims to be the largest gathering for nature and climate that the UK, and much of the world, has ever seen. The Restore Nature Now demonstration is a legal, peaceful, inclusive and family-friendly march. In this blog, we share our thoughts on the role of protest in the cycle of environmental stewardship.

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On 22nd June 2024, London will host what aims to be the largest gathering for nature and climate that the UK, and much of the world, has ever seen. The Restore Nature Now demonstration is a legal, peaceful, inclusive and family-friendly march, and plays an important part in reaffirming the hopes of the people, ahead of important elections.

In this blog, we share our thoughts on the role of protest in the cycle of environmental stewardship.

While Earthed typically focuses on nature restoration, we recognise that protest is a vital element of climate action. Each of us has the potential to contribute to planetary restoration, but systemic change happens at the governmental level, and moments when our collective voices can truly make an impact are rare.

Our Role as Nature Stewards

As stewards of nature, our roles are rich and diverse, but often stem from grass-roots action. Yet, to ensure we protect nature in as many ways as is possible, we feel it can be useful to consider a balance of the following:

  • Practical engagement with nature – tree planting, habitat restoration, and wildlife conservation. By doing so, we directly contribute to the health of our ecosystems.
  • Highlighting environmental needs, and proposing lifestyle changes to our networks, peers, friends and family. When done in the right way, this can foster a culture of conservation and sustainability
  • Pushing for systemic change through petitions and demonstrations/ protests – policies and regulations that work in favour of the environment, can lead to true systematic change. The impact can be monumental. Protests, like Restore Nature Now, amplify our voices, needs and show unity and determination for systems change.

The Power of Protest

Protests serve as a vital catalyst for change, especially in the realm of environmental conservation. Historically, many significant environmental policies have been enacted following large-scale public demonstrations. These events capture public and media attention, compelling political leaders to address the demands of their constituents. The visibility of such movements can influence public opinion and place pressure on decision-makers to act.

Raising Awareness & Educating the Public

When thousands gather to support a cause, it sends a powerful message to those in power, but it also educates the broader public. Many people may not fully understand the urgency of environmental issues until they see a large, passionate group advocating for change. This public display can spark curiosity and lead to increased knowledge and involvement.

Influencing Policy & Legislation

At the heart of environmental protests is the goal to influence policy and legislation. Demonstrations show policymakers that there is a significant demand for action on climate and environmental issues. In the lead-up to elections, such protests become even more critical. They remind elected officials and candidates that their constituents prioritise the environment and expect meaningful action. This pressure can lead to the adoption of more robust environmental policies and commitments.

Reaffirming Hope & Commitment

In times of environmental crises, it is easy to suffer from climate anxiety, overwhelm and powerlessness. Uniting shoulder to shoulder, with like-minded individuals in a large-scale demonstration can be a powerful antidote to despair. It shows that there is a community of people who care deeply about the planet and are willing to take action. This collective energy can inspire continued efforts in personal and community-based conservation initiatives, and can be healing.

The Restore Nature Now March

The Restore Nature Now demonstration in London is set to be a landmark event in the UK’s environmental movement. As we gather to march for nature, we do so with the understanding that this protest is a crucial part of the broader effort to protect and restore our natural world. The peaceful, inclusive, and family-friendly nature of the event ensures that it is accessible to all who wish to participate, amplifying its impact.

As we approach the demonstration, we encourage everyone to join us in London on 22nd June 2024. Whether you are a seasoned activist or someone attending your first protest, your presence matters. Together, we can send a powerful message that nature restoration and conservation are priorities that cannot be ignored.

Protest plays an essential role in the cycle of environmental restoration and conservation. The Restore Nature Now demonstration is a testament to the power of collective action in driving change. Together, we can be a part of this historic moment for nature and climate action, and be one step closer to helping every river, city, farm and balcony burst with life.

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Q&A with Sadhguru: Why Soil Health is so Important https://www.earthed.co/blog/sadhguru-qanda-soil-health/ Mon, 08 Jan 2024 16:18:45 +0000 https://www.earthed.co/?p=11271 Earthed's co-founders, Christabel and Ruby engage with Sadhguru, respected yogi, visionary and founder of the Save Soil movement, to answer a few key questions on the critical aspects of soil health.

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As our planet grapples with a mounting soil crisis, Sadhguru, a respected yogi and visionary, has initiated the Save Soil movement to address this urgent concern. Earthed’s co-founders, Christabel and Ruby engaged with Sadhguru to answer a few key questions, exploring the critical aspects of soil health.

Sadhguru, Save Soil and Earthed recognise the intrinsic value of the ground beneath our feet and work collectively for a sustainable future. Explore the conversations below…

Q: Why did you create the campaign to “save soil”? Why is it important that we all get involved?

Sadhguru: If you look at the way life happens on this planet, the microbial life in the soil is the foundation for all other life. The basis of all life is in the first 12-15 inches of soil. But today, around the world, soil degradation is happening at a rapid pace.
Half of the world’s topsoil has been lost. In normal agricultural soil, the minimum organic matter should be between 3-6%, but in large parts of the world, it is well below 1%. Right now, United Nations statistics say that we may have agricultural soil only for another 80-100 crops. This means in just 45-60 years, there could be severe food shortages, and getting rich soil will become the basis of wars on this planet.
When it comes to biodiversity and soil, national boundaries mean nothing. It has to be addressed globally. If we have any commitment to life on this planet, if we have any commitment to future generations, this is a must-do for every nation. So, the first and foremost thing is to enshrine soil and ecological regeneration as a part of every nation’s policy.
This is what the Conscious Planet – Save Soil movement is trying to do. It is aiming to bring about a global policy that there must be a minimum of 3-6% organic matter in agricultural land, based on regional conditions.

Q: What is the relationship between our spiritual practice and the practice of caring for the Earth?

Sadhguru: Unfortunately, we live in times when human consciousness is so compartmentalized that we have forgotten that there is actually no such thing as “environment.” If an individual is willing, he can experience the entire world as himself. It is only because he has not exercised this choice that there is a divide between humanity and the environment.
Ecology and human consciousness cannot be separated. Spirituality is not about looking up or down, it is about looking inward. The first fundamental fact you find on looking inward is that you are very much a part of everything around you. The word “Yoga” means union. Union means the boundaries of the individual self dissolve, and you experience existence as yourself. Once this is a living experience, then no one has to tell you to save the planet. To care for what is around you as you care for yourself is only natural.

Q: What is your advice to people who want to inspire their friends and family to work to regenerate soil too?

Sadhguru: In a democracy, the most important thing is the people’s voice. So, I want you to use your voice. The Save Soil movement is your movement. Bring awareness in the nation and in the rest of the world that the soil upon which we stand and walk is the basis of our life, that the life which is happening in the first twelve to fifteen inches of topsoil is actually the basis of our existence.
Say something about soil, at least for five to ten minutes a day. Use social media – Twitter, Facebook, Telegram, or whatever else you have. Put a sticker on your car that says “Save Soil.” If you send a WhatsApp message, close it with “Save Soil.” If you speak to someone, say “Save Soil.” Write a letter to the Prime Minister, President or your local representatives urging them to take action.
Try to reach as many people as you can. Because when the people speak up, governments will make the necessary policy changes.

A diagram of a tree, split in half with healthy soil and impacted growth on the left, and unhealthy soil and the impact on tree growth on the right hand side.

Image: Courtesy of Coulson Brothers Arboriculture, demonstrating the impact of healthy and unhealthy soil on tree health.

Q: How can the movement for nature regeneration scale to the point it’s having global and transformative impact?

Sadhguru: Soil and environmental damage has happened not because there is an evil force sitting somewhere wanting to damage this planet. It has all happened in pursuit of human happiness and wellbeing. Every one of us, knowingly or unknowingly, are partners in this destruction. The only way out is for every one of us to be partners in the solution. It is from this basis that the Save Soil movement was launched. The movement is not an agitation or a protest, nor is it against anyone. It does not involve economic losses to companies, industries or nations. This is why the response to the movement has been phenomenal.


Since March 2022, we have reached over 4 billion people, making Save Soil the world’s largest people’s movement.

We have active partnerships with many UN agencies. I addressed 193 nations at the UNCCD COP15, where we suggested an incentive-based approach for soil revitalization. The European Union has signed a manifesto with us, and we are confident that it will naturally bring forth change across all the EU countries.

But the most important thing is that we have shifted the narrative around soil. During the COP26 in Glasgow, the word “soil” did not come up anywhere. But now, after the 100-day campaign and our continued efforts with various governments, soil has become mainstream.


At COP28, the UAE proposed the Emirates Declaration on Sustainable Agriculture, which aims to shift the focus of climate action towards soil and agriculture. This is what the Save Soil movement has been striving for. The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, also launched the Green Credit Initiative, marking a significant opening of possibilities for farmers to access carbon credit funds. This initiative will also fulfill one of the goals of the Save Soil movement.


The call for decisive action is pressing. If we just listen to the life on the planet, the message is loud and clear: we must turn around from the ecological disaster we are headed towards. Let us put aside our differences of race, religion and nationality and work together for the sake of all life on the planet. Let us make it happen.

We are deeply grateful to have the opportunity to collaborate with Sadhguru and the Save Soil team on this interview. If you’d like to become a soil steward, and take action to regenerate and replenish soil, Nicole Master’s 45-minute video course is a great place to start.

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Leave the World Behind: Learn To Become Self-Sufficient & Live Off-Grid. https://www.earthed.co/blog/leave-the-world-behind-inspires-off-grid-living/ https://www.earthed.co/blog/leave-the-world-behind-inspires-off-grid-living/#comments Tue, 12 Dec 2023 13:04:33 +0000 https://www.earthed.co/?p=10789 In a world increasingly reliant on external systems, the desire to break free and live a self-sufficient life is gaining momentum. Netflix movie, "Leave The World Behind", adapted from Rumaan Alam's novel of the same name, serves as a captivating source of inspiration, encouraging viewers to explore alternative ways of living. Read more to learn how you can with Earthed...

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In a world increasingly reliant on external systems, the desire to break free and live a self-sufficient life is gaining momentum. Netflix movie, “Leave The World Behind”, adapted from Rumaan Alam’s novel of the same name, serves as a captivating source of inspiration, encouraging viewers to explore alternative ways of living. Earthed’s courses empower individuals to learn practical skills, to make off-grid, self-sufficient living a possibility. Explore how you can learn practical tools below.

Michael Reynolds is an architect, and globally-renowned creator of Earthships. Earthships, are a cornerstone for those seeking autonomy at a time when dependence on fossil fuels, and water supplies are at an all time high. Earthships provide an alternative way of living. They create buildings that use the Earth’s natural resources to thrive. Furthermore, they also repurpose, recycle and reuse what already exists to generate comfortable homes.

By working with simple physics and biology, Earthships are able to heat and cool themselves without relying on fossil fuels. They run on renewable electricity, harvest and treat water and sewage whilst growing food. A vessel that supports life to thrive. They provide a prime example of the ways humans can live in harmony with the environment.

Michael Reynolds, a pioneer in eco-friendly architecture, guides participants through the principles and construction methods necessary to create their own Earthship. From water harvesting to thermal mass utilization, this course equips learners with the skills to build homes that are not only environmentally friendly but also economically sustainable.

Join Earthed’s Earthships course to learn about sustainable design, off-grid living including:

– Natural Heating and Cooling
– Renewable Electricity
– Water Collection and Treatment
– Sewage Treatment
– Food Production

Michael Reynolds sits inside an earthship - an off-grid home made entirely from recycled materials.

If you aren’t quite ready to build an Earthship, but would like to understand the basics of growing your own food, check out the following Earthed courses:

No-Dig Gardening with Charles Dowding

Syntropic Farming with Sidney Etienne

Biodynamic Farming with Thea Maria Carlson

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Localisation: What is it and why should you care? https://www.earthed.co/blog/what-is-localisation/ https://www.earthed.co/blog/what-is-localisation/#comments Wed, 06 Dec 2023 11:10:29 +0000 https://www.earthed.co/?p=10664 Localisation is as a potent solution to a world grappling with the consequences of widening wealth gaps and environmental degradation. It is a commitment to nurturing regional economies, fostering diversity, and prioritising the well-being of communities over unchecked global expansion.
Learn what localisation is and why you should use localisation to shift away from the globalising economic path.

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At its core, localisation is a commitment to nurturing regional economies, fostering diversity, and prioritising the well-being of communities over unchecked global expansion. It’s a departure from the current trajectory that has, in many instances, exacerbated inequality and led to the depletion of our planet’s vital ecosystems.

In a world dominated by global connectivity and interdependence, the concept of “localisation” emerges as a powerful antidote to the shortcomings of the relentless march of globalisation. As communities worldwide grapple with the consequences of widening wealth disparities and environmental degradation, the call for a shift towards supporting, protecting, and rebuilding local economies is gaining momentum.

Helena Norberg-Hodge is Earthed’s expert in localisation. In her Earthed course she teaches why a localised economy revitalises economic systems in a way that understands and respect life itself. She is a linguist, author, filmmaker and also the founding director of not for profit Local Futures.

4 Benefits of Localisation

  • Reduced Environmental Impact. Local economies often involve shorter supply chains, reducing the environmental impact associated with transportation and logistics. Additionally, this can contribute to sustainability and lower carbon emissions.
  • Community Development. Supporting local businesses fosters community development by creating jobs and stimulating regional economic growth. Furthermore, this can lead to improved living standards and a stronger sense of community.
  • Biodiversity Conservation. Local businesses that engage in sustainable practices are more likely to contribute to the conservation of local biodiversity. Therefore these businesses can help to protect local flora and fauna.
  • Preservation of Local Culture. Local businesses and industries often reflect the unique cultural identity of a region. Supporting local economies helps preserve cultural diversity and heritage.

Learn about localisation, and get practical nature skills with Earthed.

Head to our Earthed Courses and start learning from nature leaders from around the world. Why not start with, “Localisation with Helena-Norberg Hodge“.

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