Ecological Self

Overview 

The "ecological self" concept in environmental communications is rooted in environmental psychology and ecological philosophy. It refers to the idea that humans have an intrinsic connection with the natural world and that their sense of self is intertwined with the broader ecological system. In other words, the ecological self recognizes that humans are not separate from nature but are an integral part of it.

Examples

• Four ecological self experiences: cognitions, emotions, spiritual experiences, and physical behaviors

• Educational message: "Your choices matter. Every plastic bottle you recycle, every tree you plant, and every sustainable choice you make contributes to the health of our planet, which in turn supports your ecological self."

References

• Bragg, E. (1996). Towards ecological self: Deep ecology meets constructionist self-theory. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 16, 93–108. https://doi.org/10.1006/jevp.1996.0008

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