PILLARS OF NATURE RELATIONSHIPS.
WHAT ARE THE PILLARS OF NATURE RELATIONSHIPS?
At the heart of Rooted in Ethics are three guiding Pillars of Nature Relationships: Receptive, Reciprocal, and Respectful. These pillars shape how we step into the right relationship with Nature—not as separate from it but as part of a living, interconnected world.
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Rooted in Traditional Ecological Knowledge and developed in collaboration with representatives of Original Peoples and Nations, these pillars form the foundation of our Ethical Principles and working practices. They remind us that restoration is not just about landscapes—it is about listening deeply, giving back, and honouring the wisdom of the land and those who care for it.
While this framework has been co-created with Original Peoples' and Nations' representation, it does not claim to speak for all Indigenous Peoples and local communities. Instead, it acknowledges the diversity of voices, knowledge systems, and lived experiences that shape relationships with the land.
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RECEPTIVE
Being receptive to Nature means approaching it with openness, curiosity, and a willingness to learn—both through scientific research and direct experience. This could be as simple as listening to the wind in the trees, sensing the seasons' rhythm, or observing an ecosystem's intricate intelligence.
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Many describe this experience as a deep feeling of awe—recognising Nature’s beauty, wisdom, and mystery. To be truly receptive is to allow what we learn to shape our perspectives, inform our actions, and guide how we care for the world around us.
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RECIPROCAL
Reciprocity calls us to give back to the Earth—not just as individuals but as communities, organisations, and societies. It recognises that all of Nature is interconnected and that our actions should nurture balance, health, and regeneration for all life.
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To be in a reciprocal relationship with Nature and Mother Earth means taking responsibility for your actions —actively caring for the land, engaging in ethical ecosystem restoration, and ensuring that restoration efforts honour and support the places and communities they impact.
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True reciprocity is not about offsetting harm—it does not legitimise the idea that ecological damage in one place can be “balanced” by restoration elsewhere. Instead, it calls for deep accountability and a commitment to making choices that support the thriving of all beings.
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RESPECTFUL
Respect is the foundation of a healthy, balanced relationship between humanity and the rest of the living world. Across cultures and landscapes, Original Nations, Indigenous Peoples, local communities, and organisations have long upheld ways of living that honour, safeguard, and serve life.
To practice respect is to recognise and appreciate all beings' unique gifts, wisdom, and integrity. It means acknowledging Nature’s rights, being open to different ways of knowing, and actively nurturing relationships built on mutual respect and care. Respect is not passive—it requires deliberate effort, deep listening, and a commitment to honouring the interwoven fabric of life.
For a deeper exploration of the Pillars of Nature Relationships, see Rooted in Ethics: The Community Tree Stewardship Framework and the Practices Guide, co-published by TreeSisters and The Fountain. These resources offer guidance on integrating these principles into restoration practices and community-led stewardship.
"The forest is a living entity with many connections... Losing it is like losing a language of Good Living."
Mindahi Bastida, Otomi-Toltec Nation and co-author of Rooted in Ethics.
