When I was writing the Appellation Mars story, I kept thinking about how irresponsible it would be to occupy another planet because we were unable to live in harmony with the one we have occupied for millennia. Of course the urge to explore is a natural part of being human and creativity is fueled by possibilities beyond what we know. But it will take a lot of effort to make a new planet our home. Wouldn’t it make more sense to use that imagination and technology to live in balance with the ecosystem we already inhabit?

Conservation organizations are working very hard to protect and preserve our ecosystem. Conservation International produced a video called “Home” for their Nature Is Speaking series. It offers thought-provoking reflections on what our planet would say if it could speak: “I am your refuge. I am the floor that supports you, the foundation that keeps you steady, the walls that give you shelter, the roof that protects you. I am your home. If you don’t take care of me, I cannot take care of you…” Each video ends with the reminder that “nature doesn’t need people. People need nature.” 

Long before the reality of climate change, threats to biodiversity and natural resources existed. Space travel is one possibility for the future. But more importantly, scientists and designers are innovating ways to change how we live with the natural world around us. The internet has become a stage for information outlets which, in the words of Fast Company, encourage people to “think expansively, lead with purpose, embrace change, and shape the future of business.” Corporations are adjusting their practices to reduce their environmental impact. The wine industry, particularly transparent to nature, is actively seeking ways to reduce carbon emissions and agriculturally prepare for climate changes. Organizations such as the Porto Protocol Foundation are providing a global forum for wineries and related industries to share ecological ideas.

If the population continues to grow, we will probably need new frontiers in space. But hopefully, with proactive collaboration and ingenuity we will always have our Earth as a place to call home.