The environment is so fundamental to our continued existence that it must transcend politics and become a central value of all members of society.

Treaties, agreements and organizations to help settle disputes may be necessary, but they often favor the interests of business over citizens.

I can't imagine anything more important than air, water, soil, energy and biodiversity. These are the things that keep us alive.

Because countries often have differing political and economic systems, agreements are needed to protect those invested in trade.

Even meeting Kyoto targets barely makes a dent in what we have to achieve.

I've always been more interested in organisms that can move on their own than in stationary plants. But when I canoe or hike along the edge of lakes or oceans and see trees that seem to be growing out of rock faces, I am blown away. How do they do it?

Nature surrounds us, from parks and backyards to streets and alleyways. Next time you go out for a walk, tread gently and remember that we are both inhabitants and stewards of nature in our neighbourhoods.