3 tips how to push coexistence from +30 years experience
1 Biodiversity Action = 1 Minute
Coexistence = figuring out how to live side by side with wildlife
Is one of the biggest challenges I think about.
When I was growing up I especially loved the big and "dangerous" animals, like elephant, wolves and co.
But they are disappearing, because we humans struggle to coexist with them.
So I asked my friend Kriton, who has +30 years of experience, what he recommended to us.
#1 Listen
Before trying to convince anyone about why wolves and co. matter, simply listen. Listen to the person and community that every day has to live side by side with such animals. It will allow you to learn a lot about their reality and worries and how you can help to overcome them.
#2 Be humble
Last thing locals need is a smarty, that has it all figured out. Stay humble and speak in an inclusive language that leaves no one behind (I attempt to always write < Grade 5). Constantly ensure that the impacted community understands the treasure they live next to and show ways how they can benefit from it (by spending more time in it, earning a living, etc.)
#3 Plan
Just because you are listening and being humble, doesnt mean you shouldn't be prepared. Do your homework and cover the topic from all sides. Next steps; Plan A-Z; Arguments for all sorts of perspectives etc. Just make sure you don't stay rigid to it if new insights from our conversations with the local community emerge.
Coexistence is a tough nut to crack in a world of urbanization and expanding agriculture. So it needs biodiversity builders like you who are up for a challenge. Thank you, Kriton, for your wisdom.
📖 What I read: Leather Also Has a Role to Play in the Fight Against Deforestation
🦸♂️ Who inspired me: Annie Lee
📹 What I watched: The Man Bringing Extinct Creatures Back To Life
P.S. We keep on testing new features with Wildya, so we are looking for 10 beta testers. Criteria: a) You need to like nature b) You currently struggle with a habit (learning a new language, changing your diet, workout, too much social media etc.). If that’s you, just answer this mail to get more info.