The Big Picture: Earth Systems and the Human Impact

For those unacquainted with the terms, human ecology involves scientifically examining intricate relationships between human behavior and the environment, seeking sustainable solutions for harmonious coexistence, and understanding interconnections with biodiversity. This interdisciplinary study incorporates principles of physics, ecology, and systems theory (social, cultural, economic, and political dimensions) to analyze the flow of matter and energy, the impact of human actions on natural systems, and the resulting implications for sustainability and environmental health. Similarly, systems thinking or change companies commit to transformative and holistic shifts in social, economic, environmental, or organizational systems, focusing on underlying structures and fostering systemic changes to address root causes.

I strongly believe that applying a systems thinking approach to investing in and advising on climate solutions, dissolves the separateness between humanity and biodiversity by addressing root causes and fostering systemic changes for more sustainable and interconnected experiences.

Conveying the links between my academic backgrounds in human ecology, design, and conservation, and their relevance to sustainable innovation and systems thinking faced challenges, primarily in male-dominated enterprises, often due to the preference for a more localized view over a global perspective. This isn't a critique but an observation of challenges faced when holistic thought wasn't always appreciated, especially from a woman's perspective. Fortunately, societal tolerance for those with interdisciplinary outlooks has improved, and more people see the value of interdisciplinary solutions.

Throughout my extensive career, the prevalent tendency in different countries and industries to view systems as separate entities has hindered the holistic perspective required for recognizing interconnections to crises like the climate crisis. This broader perspective aims to connect the complex dynamics of humanity with the broader environmental context and biodiversity. Why? Because?Biodiversity is an integral component of humanity. Even today, I encounter professionals who claim to work in systems but don't fully grasp its global implications: to form holistic shifts in social, economic, environmental, or organizational frameworks.

In 2023, I enjoyed working with various organizations globally, emphasizing the impact of systems thinking and its multifaceted ways of catalyzing change, especially in my mission to foster interconnectedness between humanity and nature for climate solutions. Here's a snapshot:

1. Nation of Hawaii? :?Serving as a Human Ecologist and Senior Advisor on Climate and Tech Innovation allows me to align with the mission of rekindling native Hawaiians and islands with Native Science. The Nation of Hawaii's dedication to restoring coastal watersheds, fisheries, and coral reefs, in harmony with the 1993 U.S. Congress Apology Resolution, reflects the interconnectedness between humanity and the environment. John Kealoha Garcia
2. Guam Green Growth ?,?University of Guam ?.?A few years ago, my dear friend?Asher Jay ?, Founder of Henoscene (check her out), brought me to an event that changed my life for the better. One of the amazing people I met at this event who has since become a friend was?Austin J. Shelton, Ph.D. ?a bright marine biologist, but also a magician when it comes to the amount of work and mission he is committed to. Austin was one of the first people who believed in my voice to speak publicly and integrate ecology, investing, innovation, and design into one narrative, not just as an investor, but also as a human ecologist. He invited me to the beautiful island of Guam to talk about island abundance at the University of Guam Island Sustainability Conference alongside incredible speakers?Omar Degan ,?Nicole Yamase, PhD ?,?Landisang Kotaro ,?Christine Landmeier, ?etc. And, thanks to Austin's initiative for medicinal healing at the University I delved into the Chamorro people's connection to native science emphasizing the importance of cultural perspectives in understanding and addressing environmental challenges.
3. PVBLIC Foundation :?A heartfelt acknowledgment to?Sergio Fernandez de Cordova ?and his team for their dedication to mobilizing global change-makers to take action for sustainable development. I appreciate your support in amplifying my voice to reconnect nature with innovation, aligning with the broader mission of fostering interconnectedness.
4. Extreme Tech Challenge :?Thanks to?Victoria Slivkoff ?and?Bill Tai ?for providing a platform to aid talented founders from around the world in solving?SDGs . I get to peek inside the amazing work of founders for the 4th year in a row as a judge and be a resource either with investment or advice. If you are a Founder this is a great challenge to apply to!
5. PDIE Group? ?:?Gratitude to?Christian Schmitz ?and?Joerg Geier ?for their mission to unite investors and innovators globally to combat climate crises. Thankful for the opportunities to discuss island abundance, native science, and the synergy of nature with innovation at the FOCS Summit and all other events! Laquelle Mari
6. Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham ?in Kerala:?My Ashram experience, meeting?Amma , and learning of her mission to awaken love, peace, and joy was invaluable along with the trusting invitation to speak at the University on Investing in Native Science and Innovation. Thank you for the invitation to the inauguration of the Dean of the Amrita School of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Dr. Bhavani Rao. Amritapuri is ranked among the top 50 in the world for sustainability and addressing the UNSDGs for humanitarian work. The generosity and kindness of the staff left lasting memories?Claire Moleon
7. The Ocean Foundation ,?GLOBAL ISLAND PARTNERSHIP (GLISPA) ,?Blue Planet Alliance ,?Kate Brown , and?Peggy Liu ?with Tornado Leadership. These mentoring relationships and support in addressing climate consequences align with the broader mission of fostering interconnectedness between humanity and the environment, particularly in the context of ocean health and island sustainability.
8. One of the most impactful moments I cherish is my participation in the UN International Negotiating Committee 2 in Paris, France, supporting the accomplished?Palau Ambassador?Ilana Seid ?and former Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS) Chair?to address plastic pollution. I appreciate the trust placed in my expertise to provide insights on financial prospects and technological innovations for Palau and PSIDS in tackling the challenges of plastic and climate crises. This experience provided a profound understanding of the intricate workings of a global treaty, emphasizing the collective effort required worldwide. Palau, spearheading climate initiatives among PSIDS, is led by an inspiring woman dedicated to innovation and climate solutions.
9. Biomimicry Institute :?It was such a delight ending the year on a panel with?Janine Benyus ?for the?Ray of Hope ?Prize. Her work continues to inspire and guide the journey of researchers and founders, aligned with the overarching theme of fostering interconnectedness between human activities and the natural world. Thanks to?Jared Yarnall-Schane ?and the panelists?Deepak Rajmohan ,?Julia Arnhold ?John Lanier , @Mark settle for their contributions!
10. Companies to watch:?Notpla ,?Koolboks ,?Henoscene ,?Sparxell ?

In recognizing the considerable individuals and experiences not explicitly mentioned, I extend warm appreciation to all who played a meaningful role in 2023. Special love goes to my brilliant sister,?Sitara Weerakoon, PhD MPH , who provided invaluable mentorship in the writing and publication process for academic journals. Thanks to?Chante Harris ?,?Asher Jay ?,?Henk Rogers ?,?Francois Rogers ?,?Amanda Slavin ?,?Kunal Sood ?,?Peggy Liu ?,?Mark J. Spalding ?,?Kate Brown ?,?Sergio Fernandez de Cordova ?,?Rosy Khanna ?,?Trammell Crow Company ?,?Jared Yarnall-Schane ?,?Helena Wasserman ?,?Christian Schmitz ?,?Laquelle Mari ?,?Sarah E. Endline ?,?Jacques Macaire ?,?Omar Degan ?,Seth Blaustein ?,?Nicole Enslein ?,?Sally Ann Ranney ?,?Inge Relph ?,?Nick Henry ?,?Yvonne Beri ?, Adria D.,?James Benedict ?,?MASHA BRODSKAYA aka ?MBE ?,?Daniela Armijos ?,?Bob Zangrillo ?,?Gary Green ?,?Kate Brown ?,?Vincent Doumeizel ?,?Pierre-Yves Paslier ,?Asha de Vos ?,?Weston Woodward ?, @Brandon,?Kirk Douglas MBA, Ph.D. ?,John Kealoha Garcia ?,?Julie Hartup ?,?Ilana Seid ?,?Chelsea Toler ?,?Linda Asaf ?,?Leslie Harwell ?,?Michelle Li ?,?Doug Sutcliffe ?and many more.

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