Seeing nature through many lenses: Why diverse values matter for sustainability.

When we think about protecting nature, what comes to mind? Forests, oceans, maybe some endangered species. But have we asked: what does nature mean to different people? This simple question lies at the heart of a call to rethink how we value nature, made by profound voice in global sustainability science—Professor Patricia (Patty) Balvanera, visiting from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). Her work exemplifies the transformative potential of valuing diversity— in nature, in people, and in ways of knowing.

For too long, political and economic systems have focused almost exclusively on market-based values of nature—how much a forest is worth in timber, or how tourism contributes to Gross Domestic Product (GDP). While these instrumental views can be useful, they tell only part of the story. Around the world, Indigenous peoples, farmers, and local communities connect with nature through relationships of stewardship, reverence, and identity. These connections are often overlooked in environmental decisions, leading to policies that are ineffective—or worse, unjust.

The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) has led a groundbreaking effort to capture the diverse values of nature. The Values Assessment, involving more than 300 experts from 47 countries, offers a new way to think about these values—from spiritual and cultural to ecological and economic.

"A key insight? There’s no shortage of ways to value nature— there is just a shortage of ways to include all voices in the conversation. Over 50 methods exist to assess nature’s value, yet fewer than 5% of studies influence policy. To change this, we need to embed valuation into the entire decision-making process, from planning and budgeting to monitoring outcomes. That means respecting different knowledge systems, enabling inclusive participation, and recognizing power dynamics that determine whose values count."

"At its core, valuing nature is about justice. More equitable policies emerge when diverse values are not only recognized but balanced—especially in ways that address the historical and social inequalities often embedded in environmental governance."

Prof Patty Balvanera inspired the audience with the Cocina Colaboratorio in Mexico—a transdisciplinary project that brings together cooks, farmers, artists, students, and elders to co-create just and sustainable food systems. Through shared meals, storytelling, and agroecological practices, participants nurture a sense of communal care and resistance to extractive models of development. This grassroots model shows that transformative change towards sustainability doesn’t always start in policy rooms—it often begins around a kitchen table. See https://colaboratorykitchen.com/es/

"Expanding how we see and value nature will help us confront the biodiversity crisis and climate challenges ahead. That means:

• Recognizing diverse worldviews and knowledge systems
• Creating space for Indigenous and local voices about nature and culture
• Reshaping decision-making institutions to support diverse perspectives
• Aligning development with values like unity, justice, stewardship, responsibility and reciprocity."

'Nature isn’t just a set of resources—it’s a living relationship. And the more we honor that relationship in all its forms, the better equipped we are to build a sustainable, thriving future."

Dr Ro Hill’s introduction to Prof Balvanera’s seminar highlighted how the conversation is part of a longer journey one that many in The Cairns Institute and partners have been on for decades. "It is a journey that insists we honour diverse knowledge systems, support Indigenous leadership, decolonise research and rethink how we define value, progress, and wellbeing."

"As we deepen our collaborations, both regionally and globally, we reaffirm a shared truth: Diversity is not just something to include—it is the foundation of resilience and sustainability."

Interested in learning more? Explore the IPBES Values Assessment and follow ongoing initiatives at www.ipbes.net. |   https://doi.org/10.5751/ES-15829-300117

MAY 2025