Forum to discuss how we can improve our connection with nature
thaca is launching a new Biophilia Chapter to link people together to improve human connection to nature. People are increasingly disconnected from nature in modern society, and research shows that restoring and strengthening people’s connection to nature benefits the health of individuals, communities, and the planet. Please join us for our first Biophilia: Ithaca forum for a lively discussion with renowned local metal worker Durand Van Doren, whose work is inspired by nature. We will introduce our new chapter and its origins thus far. Over light refreshments, we will discuss our collective goals, expectations, and roles to begin to set the course for our new chapter.
Please join the movement!
Date/time: Thursday, May 18; 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Location: Tompkins County Library, Borg Warner Room
Cost: Free and open to the public. No registration is required.
Background:
What is Biophilia? It is the human affinity for interacting with nature. The term “biophilia,” which literally means “love of life,” was coined by social psychologist Erich Fromm and popularized by biologist E.O. Wilson.
Biophilia: Ithaca is modeled after the Biophilia: Pittsburgh which is a “pilot chapter for a global Biophilia Network of creative minds dedicated to strengthening the bond between people and the natural world through education, discussion and action.”
Our Mission: To strengthen human connections to nature and to advocate for policies and practices that benefit the local natural environment.
Our Goals:
• To create a supportive and inclusive network that fosters collaboration and learning about biophilia among people with diverse backgrounds and viewpoints
• To welcome and inspire others with the concept of biophilia
• To explore new approaches to strengthening human connections to nature and to discuss their application to our local community
• To use our collective voice to advocate for and to assist in the implementation of policies and practices that benefit the natural environment