COP18: We must reconnect with nature to solve climate crisis

COP18: We must reconnect with nature to solve climate crisis

COP18 (28/11/12) – Manari Ushigua, a representative of the Zapara people (Ecuador), describes the effects of climate change in Ecuador and his view that our disconnection with nature is to blame for the environmental crisis.

Ushigua explains that climate change is having a serious effect in Ecuador, damaging their livestock and the forests that they steward.

Ushigua argues that, as human beings, we have lost our connection with nature and that this is something we must reclaim. He laments that governments talk much and make many promises but fail to act true to their word when they return home after UN conferences.

Ushigua also expresses his concern about the Ecuadorian government’s plans to exploit the nation’s petroleum resources, which he argues threatens the health of the natural environment and the success of the conservation work undertaken by indigenous peoples.