natureor

Natureor is a term used in environmental discourse to describe a perspective or approach that prioritizes natural ecosystems and non-human interests in decision-making processes. The word blends nature with the agent suffix -or, signaling a person, stance, or framework associated with nature-centered governance. It has appeared in discussions of sustainability, ecological economics, and urban planning, but it is not yet a standardized term.

Definition and scope: A natureor approach seeks to integrate biodiversity conservation, ecosystem services, and climate resilience into policy, planning, and organizational practice. It can apply to individuals, organizations, or institutions that commit to nature-first principles, such as prioritizing green infrastructure, habitat protection, and long-term ecological integrity in project design and evaluation.

Usage and interpretation: In scholarly and policy contexts, natureor is used to contrast with technocratic or growth-oriented approaches that may undervalue ecological costs. Because the term rarely appears in formal policy documents, its meaning is often inferred from context and related terms such as ecocentrism, nature-based solutions, and sustainable development.

Criticisms and challenges: Critics argue that natureor can be vague and rhetorical, risking ambiguity about how to balance social and economic needs with ecological goals. Proponents contend that it helps foreground natural considerations in decision-making and may inspire concrete measures when paired with clear metrics.

See also: ecocentrism, nature-based solutions, environmental ethics.