changing PLANET
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Natural biomes are large-scale ecological areas defined by climate, vegetation, and animal life, operating with minimal human influence. Traditionally, these are classified as forests, grasslands, deserts, and tundra, shaped primarily by factors like temperature, rainfall, and soil composition.
Conversely, anthromes (anthropogenic biomes) represent a modern classification system that accounts for the significant, sustained impact of human activity. Defined by global patterns of human population density and land use—such as urban areas, croplands, and rangelands—anthromes recognize that human systems have fundamentally altered most of the planet's ice-free land surface. For example, a "natural" forest biome is reclassified as a "forested anthrome" when heavily managed for timber or resources.
The AwareNearth Vision
At AwareNearth, we believe understanding the fundamental link between healthy natural biomes and the well-being of our anthromes is central to responding to existential threats. We can restore our planet by prioritizing the restoration of damaged natural biomes rather than systematically exploiting natural resources. By adopting the perspective of Indigenous Peoples, who perceive Mother Earth as a living entity to be respected rather than merely exploited, we can foster a harmonious relationship between humanity and the natural world.
© AwareNearth 2026
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For much of human history, we lived in the Holocene, a geological epoch defined by a stable, warm climate that allowed human civilization to flourish. While we adapted to our environment, our impact on a planetary scale was limited.
However, we have now entered the Anthropocene—the age of humanity. In this new epoch, our species' collective actions have become the dominant force shaping Earth's climate and ecosystems. We are no longer just living on the planet; we are fundamentally changing it.
This transition has brought remarkable progress, including advanced technologies and better quality of life for billions. Yet, this ingenuity has come with significant costs: climate change, mass extinction, and widespread pollution.
Recognizing our role in the Anthropocene isn't about guilt; it is about accepting a new responsibility. Because we have the power to both create and destroy, our challenge is to use that power consciously to steer our planet toward a sustainable and resilient future.
© AwareNearth 2026
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We live on a world that is not just a natural biome, but a product of human influence. The vast majority of Earth's surface has been shaped by our choices—from the cities we build to the crops we grow. In this sense, Earth can be seen as an artifact planet: a world transformed by human intelligence and ingenuity.
Rather than a judgment, this concept is an acknowledgement of our profound responsibility. It invites us to move past the view of humanity as separate from nature, positioning us instead as active stewards and partners in shaping the planet's future.
Recognizing Earth as an artifact planet requires us to adopt a new framework:
The Interconnectedness of All Systems: Our "anthromes"—human-transformed landscapes—are inextricably linked with remaining natural biomes. The health of one directly impacts the other.
A Call to Guardianship: We have a responsibility to care for the world we have fundamentally altered. We must move from being mere inhabitants to becoming active, compassionate guardians.
A Foundation for Hope: The ability to shape our world so dramatically means we also have the power to reshape it for the better. Through science, art, and emotion, we can create a future where our human-made world coexists in a harmonious partnership with nature.
© AwareNearth 2026