Today I learned a lot about the natural history of some of New Zealand’s environment. It was interesting to learn that some of the bacteria in the lakes were a large part of converting carbon dioxide into oxygen. This reminded me that although people often only talk about trees, there are a lot more options when thinking about taking carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere.
Maybe the best part of the trip so far was getting to be a part of and learn more about the Maori culture. Everyone we met was so welcoming and made us feel like family. I was struck by how thankful they were that we were all there eager to learn, when I was the one feeling grateful that they wanted to share their culture with us. Their attitude of welcoming, love, and storytelling is a great base when thinking about sustainability. The ability to listen to everyones ideas and acknowledge differences of sustainable solutions is so important so we don’t get stuck in arguments over legislation. Additionally the way they told stories and recognized the land around them as their home creates such an empathy that strikes people and causes them to care about preserving what is under their feet.
