As humanity faces a mounting biodiversity and climate crisis, it becomes evident that conventional conservation efforts, often centred around protecting individual endangered species or specific habitats, are insufficient. For instance, according to a 2020 report by the UN, an estimated one million species are at risk of extinction. To mitigate these crises, it’s imperative to embrace a more holistic, integrative approach towards environmental preservation, something indigenous communities have practised for generations.
At CBBM, we delve into the wisdom of these indigenous communities, adopting their harmonious relationship with nature and promoting the concept of Biosynergy to foster both personal and communal healing.
Derived from ‘bios,’ the Greek word for life, and ‘synergy,’ which denotes cooperative interaction, Biosynergy refers to the interdependent relationships between diverse life forms within an ecosystem. It posits that the well-being of every organism, from the tiniest spider to the most complex primate, is inherently linked within the web of life.
The ethos of Biosynergy encourages us to recognize the mutual benefits derived from interspecies cooperation and ecosystem synergy. It promotes a profound understanding of our coexistence with other organisms, valuing their inherent worth and right to thrive beyond their utility to human life. It is a shift from mere fascination or affiliation with other forms of life towards acknowledging and understanding the intricate interrelationships among all life forms and shared ecosystems.
For instance, the field of primatology has traditionally focused on studying primates in isolation. In the spirit of Biosynergy, CBBM proposes that the field broaden its perspective to include human-nonhuman primate interactions. Disregarding the symbiotic relationships between primates and their human observers, predators, and protectors offers an incomplete picture of their existence. Similarly, conservation efforts that overlook the intricate relationships between primates and indigenous and local people are unlikely to succeed.
To drive this point home, one of CBBM’s initiatives involves working with local communities in the Congo rainforest, establishing mutual respect and understanding between the indigenous people and the resident primates. This approach underscores the value of all species within the ecosystem and the importance of their harmonious interaction.
The health of an ecosystem isn’t solely determined by its species diversity but also how well the species synergize. CBBM strives to shed light on this by designing monitoring processes that evaluate the success or failure of conservation methods based on their promotion of Biosynergy. We aim to foster a more comprehensive understanding of Biosynergy, thereby encouraging a global shift in mindset leading to eco-spiritual well-being – a sense of inner peace derived from living harmoniously with nature.
Biosynergy paints a promising picture of our planet’s future, where civilization and nature coexist seamlessly. Every organism’s welfare is acknowledged, and every life form contributes meaningfully to a thriving ecosystem. By championing Biosynergy, CBBM seeks to cultivate ecosystems that are collaboratively maintained and restored by all species, including humans. This holistic approach enables us to reach our potential as Earth’s stewards, shaping a future where all life forms enjoy sustainable prosperity.
We invite you to join us on this exciting journey towards a more harmonious world. Whether you share our passion for Biosynergy or want to learn more about our work, we’d love to hear from you.
Sources: Rose, A. L. (2011). Bonding, biophilia, biosynergy, and the future of primates in the wild. American Journal of Primatology, 73(3), 245-252; UN Report, 2020.
