In a world increasingly disconnected from the natural rhythms that once guided us, certified guide Julie Schadeck’s work with UNature serves as a poignant reminder of the healing power inherent in our environment. Her recent presentation during Luxembourg’s #HealthcareWeek, titled “Nature and Mental Health: The Healing Power of Green Spaces,” highlighted the profound impact that nature has on our mental well-being.

Julie emphasized that despite the rapid evolution of our living environments, our DNA has changed by only 0.005% over the last 10,000 years. This minimal genetic shift underscores a significant point: our innate need for nature remains unchanged. Her advocacy aligns seamlessly with several SDGs:

• SDG 3 Good Health and Well-being: by promoting nature as a tool for mental health, Julie addresses the need for holistic approaches to well-being
• SDG 4 Quality Education: through UNature, she fosters educational programs that reconnect individuals with nature, emphasizing experiential learning
• SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities: her initiatives encourage the integration of green spaces into urban planning, enhancing the livability of our cities
• SDG 13 Climate Action: by instilling a sense of connection to nature, Julie inspires proactive environmental stewardship

Julie’s approach is not merely theoretical; it’s deeply practical. She collaborates with schools, businesses, and policymakers to integrate nature into various facets of daily life. Her work with the Doors Project further exemplifies her commitment to education and empowerment, bringing learning opportunities to vulnerable populations. Reflecting on Julie’s contributions, I’m reminded of the profound truth that our relationship with nature is integral to our overall health and societal well-being. Her efforts illuminate a path forward . . . paths where re-connecting with the natural world is not a “luxury”, but a necessity.

Let us take inspiration from Julie Schadeck’s vision and strive to weave nature back into the fabric of our lives, for the betterment of ourselves and future generations.

#NatureAndMentalHealth #Sustainability #SDGs #UNature #WellBeing #GreenSpaces #ClimateAction

Further details:

Conference programe https://www.unature.org/en/conference-program-day-2 Day 2 of the conference explores what’s missing in environmental education today.

A key challenge lies in the psychological gap between knowing about something and truly caring about it—a disconnect that can hinder meaningful engagement. Our expert panel will bring together leaders from education, psychology, policy, and industry to challenge assumptions, re-imagine approaches, and spark new ways of thinking about how we inspire collective understanding and action.

Opening Remarks by the Minister of Environment, Climate and Biodiversity, SERGE WILMES

Environmental Education – The Missing Connection by JULIE SCHADECK, General Manager and Certified Guide at UNature

Panel Discussion with:

• JULIE SCHADECK, General Manager and Certified Guide at UNature
• BRANISLAV KALETA, Research Assistant at Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI)
• PHIL KEECH, Head of Sustainability at International School of Luxembourg
• MARCUS B. MÜLLER, Social Scientist and Professor of Management
• SOPHIE ÖBERG, Sustainability Professional
• Moderated by JOHANNA SORRENTINO, Communication Strategist