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Notes from HCS 111 - Eco-Social Approach and Human Services

Overview of HCS 111 - Week 5

  • Focus on the eco-social approach in human services.
  • Acknowledgement of traditional land custodians.
  • Importance of recognizing the impact of the natural environment on human services.

Evolution of Eco-Social Approach

  • The eco-social approach has gained prominence over the past 20 years, unlike in the late 1990s when it was rarely discussed.
  • Significant literature produced by CSU staff reflects the growing importance of this approach.
    • Notable writers: Heather Boetto.

Connection to Nature and Human Services

  • Natural Environment: Vital for human existence, providing resources like food and oxygen.
  • Impact of Nature on Mental Health: Positive connections with nature can improve well-being.
  • Negative Impacts: Consideration of extreme weather events (e.g., bushfires, floods) on communities, particularly in the context of COVID-19 restrictions.

Broadening the Scope of Human Services

  • Holistic Approach: Involves assessing social, cultural, economic, and environmental factors affecting individuals and communities.
  • Economic Impact: Discussion on how financial conditions influence access to resources and services; importance of understanding nuances beyond surface financial literacy.
  • Housing and Homelessness: Critical issues that reflect socioeconomic disparities in connection to the environment.

Global Environmental Crisis

  • Recognition of environmental issues as global crises threatening both human and non-human life.
  • Extreme weather events are becoming more prevalent, impacting ecosystems and resources.
    • Examples: Black Saturday bushfires, cyclones, flooding events.
  • Risks: Loss of habitat, potential extinction of species, infectious diseases, and food/water insecurity.

Climate Change and Disadvantaged Groups

  • Disproportionate impact of climate change on vulnerable populations, resulting in profound effects on mental health and social dynamics.
  • Food and Water Insecurity: Rising concern, especially as associated with economic conditions.
  • Examples: Greater risk of homelessness during extreme weather; security for low-income households affected by climate events.

Social and Global Contexts

  • Discussion of poverty (absolute vs. relative), refugee displacement, and resource conflicts.
  • Environmental Considerations: Rural communities face specific challenges post-disaster, such as accessing support and recovery resources.
  • Focus on global citizenship encourages local action with global consequences.

Essential Benefits of Nature

  • Therapeutic Benefits: Engagement with nature positively influences emotional, physical health, and social interactions.
  • Importance of nature integration in rehabilitation and emergency care services (e.g., outdoor access for patients).

Eco-Social Approach vs. Conventional Approaches

  • The eco-social approach views humanity as part of, rather than separate from, the natural world.
  • Emphasizes holistic understanding and environmental stewardship in human services practice.
  • Attributes include value of indigenous knowledge and environmental sustainability.

Practical Applications in Human Services

  • Micro, Meso, and Macro Levels: Consideration of how environmental issues manifest at different scales; integrating nature in direct practice.
  • Opportunities for outdoor interactions and fostering connections between people and their environments.
  • Use of alternative practices (e.g., adventure therapy) to enhance therapeutic outcomes.

Addressing Climate Change in Practice

  • Emphasis on the role of practitioners in recognizing and mitigating the impacts of climate change on various disadvantaged groups.
  • Initiatives to reduce waste and improve environmental impact within health services and social work contexts.

Conclusion

  • Critical thinking about personal and professional connections to the environment, and how to enhance ecological practices in a professional capacity.
  • Encouragement to explore local environmental issues to better inform global perspectives and human service practices.
  • Reflection on the ethical responsibilities as practitioners in social work and human services to consider the environment.