From a young age, Shana Berge had a deep connection with nature. Whether she is fighting to save trees from being cut down or taking pictures of every plant she sees, she loves the earth.
Q: When did your love for the environment and trees begin?
A: When I was a little kid, I went to camp at the Cincinnati Nature Center, and I always loved the outdoors, trees, and nature.
Q: How do you think trees impact our daily lives, even if we don’t always notice?
A: They provide oxygen, and they’re beautiful. Personally, I think there is something spiritual about them, so I feel a connection to them when I’m in nature.
Q: Can you share a memorable experience you’ve had while spending time in nature or among trees?
A: When I was 16, I did a report on a vision quest, which is when you surround yourself in nature and fast for a few days. I didn’t do the entirety of the time, but I led my field.
Q: Why do you think it’s important for people to develop a deeper connection with the environment?
A: This is our only planet, so we have to take care of it.
Q: What are some of your favorite types of trees, and what makes them special to you?
A: My very favorite tree is in my backyard. It’s a huge oak. I love birch trees, dingos—I think their leaves are so beautiful—and maple trees. I don’t think there’s a tree I don’t like.
Q: How do you incorporate your love for the environment into your everyday life or routine?
A: I like to have nature inside. So, right now, we have one tree in the house, but my overall goal is to build a new house centered around a giant oak tree. I’m also always paying attention to trees, whether I’m driving, walking, or just looking out the windows. I am always appreciating them.
Q: What do you think is the most urgent environmental issue that we need to address?
A: I think global warming is 100% the biggest concern. It’s been making the ocean inhospitable for sea life; ice caps are melting and just destroying so many creatures’ habitats.
Q: How do you work to inspire younger generations to protect the environment?
A: I always make it a point of conversation with kids about taking care of the planet in hopes to ingrain it in them how we need to repair the earth.
