In a world increasingly detached from nature, Kristine McDivitt Tompkins urges us to embark on a transformative journey towards rewilding both the Earth and our minds. As a former Patagonia CEO and a dedicated conservationist, she emphasizes that the revitalization of our natural habitats is not just vital for wildlife but essential for humanity’s survival. This article unpacks Tompkins’ vision and strategies for rewilding our planet while highlighting the urgency of action in the face of environmental crises.
The Call for Rewilding
Kristine McDivitt Tompkins begins by expressing her concern regarding the alarming rate at which nature is being destroyed. She emphasizes that we are witnessing an unprecedented decimation of wilderness, driven primarily by human expansion and industrialization. The consequences are evident: diminishing habitats, declining wildlife populations, rising global temperatures, and suffering communities. To combat this despair, she believes in the power of action. Tompkins states, “Sentiment without action is the ruin of the soul,” a mantra that reinforces her commitment to rewilding as a form of direct, impactful action.
Understanding Rewilding
What is Rewilding?
Rewilding is an ecological restoration approach that seeks to reintegrate wild nature within landscapes by allowing ecosystems to recover naturally. When natural recovery is not feasible, rewilding involves the active restoration of habitats and the reintroduction of species that have disappeared from particular areas. This movement is both necessary and transformative, as it allows ecosystems to regain their balance and health.
A Personal Journey to Conservation
Tompkins’ journey into conservation was deeply personal. After moving from a successful corporate career in outdoor retail to a life committed to environmental stewardship, she and her late husband, Doug Tompkins, initiated a series of conservation projects in Chile and Argentina. Over three decades, they managed to acquire over two million acres of vital habitat, establishing 15 new national parks in the process. This effort protected more than 15 million acres of ecologically significant land, showcasing the profound impact of thoughtful conservation efforts.
The Power of Keystone Species
A crucial insight from Tompkins’ experience is the recognition that ecosystems cannot thrive without keystone species, which play essential roles in maintaining ecological balance. As she quotes, “Landscape without wildlife is just scenery.” The reintroduction of species such as apex predators and small herbivores has revitalized ecosystems in Patagonia, leading to the recovery of flora and fauna and restoring biodiversity.
The Challenge of Isolation
Despite the success of national parks, Tompkins points out a fundamental problem: these parks function as isolated “islands” of biodiversity. For ecosystems to flourish, they must be interconnected. Flora and fauna need unobstructed pathways to expand their territories, which is increasingly critical in a changing climate.
A Vision for the Future: Connectivity
Towards a Continental Rewilding Effort
Tompkins argues for an ambitious new direction in conservation: reconnecting the wild fabric of South America. The goal is to create continental-scale corridors by protecting rivers and natural habitats that bridge the gaps between parks and other wild areas. These corridors will serve as critical wildlife highways, allowing species to navigate their habitats freely, adapt to changes, and thrive.
Tompkins explains, “If jaguars can expand their territory from north to south, east to west, then everybody else can ‘walk under their legs.’” This illustrates the crucial role that apex predators like jaguars play in maintaining the ecosystem web.
Generational Legacy
Tompkins reflects on the long-term vision for this rewilding movement, noting that this is a journey that will continue beyond her lifetime. She emphasizes the importance of fostering a leadership legacy that inspires future generations. At the heart of this effort lies a commitment to creating a world rich in biodiversity, where all species can coexist harmoniously.
Building a Movement
The formation of independent organizations, such as Fundación Rewilding Chile and Fundación Rewilding Argentina, is a testament to the enduring spirit of rewilding efforts beyond Tompkins’ initial vision. This movement has evolved from the dedication of a few individuals to embrace teams and communities united by a shared purpose: reclaiming nature and promoting harmonious living.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
In closing, Kristine McDivitt Tompkins delivers a powerful reminder: “The first step in saving nature is the rewilding of our own minds.” This statement encapsulates the essence of rewilding as not only an ecological necessity but also a profound philosophical shift. To save our planet, we must rethink our relationship with nature, embrace our role as stewards of the Earth, and advocate for large-scale, connected conservation efforts.
The future of our ecosystems is a challenge that requires collective action, empathy, and a renewed connection with the natural world. Let us be inspired by Tompkins’ journey and consider how we can contribute to the rewilding movement in our own communities, fostering a lasting legacy that cherishes and nurtures the Earth for generations to come.
Take action today—explore local conservation efforts, engage in community rewilding initiatives, or simply start by spending more time in nature. Together, we can help restore the delicate balance that sustains all life on our planet.