BLUE ECOLOGY WORKSHOP: Module 4 – Michael Blackstock presents the case for “An Attitude Switch” (November 28, 2017 in Richmond)
Blue Ecology – An Attitude Switch!
The journey to a water-resilient future starts with Western science acknowledging water for its central functional and spiritual roles in our world.
Look at the Water Cycle Differently
“Western science is not wrong. It is just not complete. It does not account for water as part of a living ecosystem,” says Michael Blackstock, professional forester and independent scholar of European and First Nations (Gitxsan) descent.
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The Blue Ecology frame provides a holistic cultural context to enhance Western science’s knowledge of the water cycle for the benefit of hydrologists and water managers. Recognized by UNESCO and the International Association of Hydrological Sciences, Blue Ecology has five guiding principles – Spirit, Harmony, Respect, Unity and Balance – and aligns with the whole-system, water balance approach.”
“To make the right choices moving forward, decision-makers must understand how and where the rhythms of water are changing. Then they can apply ecosystem-based understanding to adapt our practices to suit a changing climate,” concludes Michael Blackstock.
Moving towards ‘Collaborative Knowledge’
Michael’s thesis is to move through a five step interweaving process and “switch” our attitude (from sovereign knowledge to collaborative knowledge), and thus behaviors, arriving at a place of hope. Blue Ecology is a case study in this process.
“Attitude influences behavior,” emphasizes Michael Blackstock. “Blue Ecology is a new cross cultural approach which inspires a new attitude towards water. There is good reason to have a strong belief in hope, instead of fear, while facing climate change. The good news…it costs nothing to switch our corporate or personal attitude.”
To Learn More:
Read chapter 3, written by Michael Blackstock, in the book titled “downstream: reimagining water”, and published in 2017 by Laurier Press: https://www.wlupress.wlu.ca/Books/D/downstream
Blue Ecology water cycle and principles, designed by Michael D. Blackstock as a companion to the conventional science-based Water Cycle.