The Importance of Trees and Nature in a Changing World

Recently, my neighbour in Zürich engaged me in a conversation concerning a plant in my backyard that was not receiving adequate sunlight, stating that it was unfair to the plant. This interaction reinforced my appreciation for the Swiss people’s high regard for nature, a value I am accustomed to as a result of my upbringing in a place where nature is highly esteemed.

Hailing from India, I am accustomed to the prevalence of tropical plants and trees such as coconut, mango, banyan, neem, jackfruit, basil, and jasmine in both urban and rural landscapes. Whenever I visit my hometown of Chennai, I make it a point to spend time in my mother’s garden, where the sight and fragrance of the plants evoke cherished memories of my childhood.

Although my education in India provided some insight into the sacredness of trees, it was not a focal point of our curriculum. My understanding of the significance of trees was primarily derived from familial teachings and visits to temples. Therefore, I was elated to come across “The Sacred Plants of India” during a visit to the C.P. Ramaswami Aiyar Foundation in Chennai, authored by historian and environmentalist Nanditha Krishna and botanist M. Amirthalingam. Krishna explained that tree worship reflects humanity’s natural reverence for nature, which provides sustenance, shelter, and other essentials. This revelation deepened my appreciation for India’s rich ecological heritage and aroused my curiosity about the trees and plants that are revered in Swiss culture.

To further explore the appreciation of nature in Switzerland, I turned to the local library’s archives and engaged with local tree experts. I discovered that oak and linden trees are revered as representatives of deities and historically served as Trees of Judgement, used for settling disputes. Even the chestnut tree, known as the bread tree, holds substantial socio-cultural importance and is experiencing a resurgence in significance due to new culinary applications of its various components. Additionally, I learned about the Enea Tree Museum, a unique fusion of botany, art, architecture, and design founded by esteemed landscape architect Enzo Enea. Enea has been dedicated to preserving trees that were earmarked for removal to make way for construction. Some of the rescued trees are showcased against sandstone blocks, creating a serene space accentuated by contemporary sculptures created by renowned artists. Enea emphasized the urgency of preserving trees and halting their unnecessary removal, particularly in light of the imminent threats posed by climate change. Trees play a pivotal role in maintaining a healthy environment, and it is imperative to safeguard their preservation for future generations.

Engaging with individuals such as Nanditha Krishna and Enzo Enea, as well as delving into literature such as “The Hidden Life of Trees” and “The Overstory,” has deepened my fascination with the natural world. In a world where technological proficiency often takes precedence over ecological awareness, it is essential to prioritize the latter. As the climate crisis looms, it is more crucial than ever to acknowledge and acknowledge the pivotal role that nature fulfills in our lives. I am grateful for the wisdom and perspectives that these individuals have imparted to me, and I am optimistic that their insights will inspire others to cherish and safeguard the environment.