Alexander von Humboldt: The Forgotten Hero of Sustainability

When asked about their heroes, many people will say athletes, actors, or musicians. But what about the people who have made significant contributions to society without becoming household names? One such individual is Alexander von Humboldt, a nineteenth century German scientist and explorer whose work fundamentally changed our understanding of nature. Humboldt was an early advocate for conservation and his legacy continues to inspire people around the world striving to protect our planet. So if you're looking for a role model who embodies the natural world in all its wonder, look no further than Alexander von Humboldt.

Alexander von Humboldt was born in Berlin in 1769 into a wealthy and noble family. From a young age, he showed an interest in the natural world and began to collect plant specimens. After some formal education, Humboldt embarked on the journey that would make him famous: a five-year expedition to South America and Mexico. He documented everything he saw in meticulous detail, making him the first person to study the region comprehensively.

Humboldt's expedition was groundbreaking not only for its scientific rigor, but also for its sustainability practices. He was one of the first explorers to consciously minimize his impact on the environment, using local guides and respecting indigenous people and their cultures.

After returning to Europe, Humboldt continued his travels and his work on sustainability. He wrote extensively about his findings and became a leading voice in the fight against deforestation and for the conservation of natural resources. While Humboldt's work was largely forgotten after his death, his legacy continues to inspire people who are working to make the world a more sustainable place. My hope is he can inspire you!

We can learn from Humboldt's example of exploration and curiosity. He was always learning, investigating and pushing himself to understand more about the world around him. We can apply this same curiosity in our own lives, whether it's exploring a new place or learning something new.

He realized that we need to take care of the planet if we want it to continue supporting life. Today, we face many of the same challenges that Humboldt warned about. By understanding his work and applying his thinking to our own lives, we can help create a more sustainable future. That is, instead of going with the flow of modern life, think outside the box about how you can live your life more sustainably. There are examples everywhere of those making an effort. Don't let perfect be the enemy of the good. You can make a difference.

What would Humboldt do? It's a question worth asking when faced with sustainability challenges large and small. With his example to follow, we can all help create a more sustainable future.