85
© The Editor(s) (if applicable) and The Author(s), under exclusive licence to
Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2020
L. Westra et al. (eds.), Ecological Integrity in Science and Law,
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-46259-8_8
Saving Species, Healthy Humanity:
The Key Role of Women in Ecological
Integrity
Shauna M. Lange
Abstract What is it that uniquely qualifies women to achieve success in the defense
of human rights and the environment? Are there certain attributes or experiences
that lead to successful activism? Societal norms and physiological predispositions
have demanded certain obedience and/or nurturing roles that have led to the development of a dedication to open communication and collaboration. It is in that realm
that we understand why big business and big government fear a woman with a voice.
1 Introduction
What is it that makes women uniquely in-tune to their environment? What does history tell us about the changes made by women in ecological integrity? Ultimately,
what can be done to protect and encourage this type of involvement in environmental conflict and advocacy?
Jane Goodall, Marjory Stoneman Douglas, Greta Thunberg, Berta Isabel Caceres
Flores and our very own Laura Westra; these women, these awe-inspiring warriors,
are just a few who have not only enhanced the world view of ecological integrity but
also helped to more clearly define it. Whether advocating for animals, protecting
natural resources, or seeking punishment and accountability for environmental
harms, these dedicated she-soldiers have championed their causes resulting in dramatic change.
Environmental Justice is the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all
people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and
policies. For centuries women have fought for equal rights, fair treatment, and the
right to be heard. In today’s world, these battles have prepared them to fight the
S. M. Lange (*)
Rees and Lange, P.C., Hobart, IN, USA
e-mail: Shaun@reeslegal.com
© The Editor(s) (if applicable) and The Author(s), under exclusive licence to
Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2020
L. Westra et al. (eds.), Ecological Integrity in Science and Law,
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-46259-8_8
Saving Species, Healthy Humanity:
The Key Role of Women in Ecological
Integrity
Shauna M. Lange
Abstract What is it that uniquely qualifies women to achieve success in the defense
of human rights and the environment? Are there certain attributes or experiences
that lead to successful activism? Societal norms and physiological predispositions
have demanded certain obedience and/or nurturing roles that have led to the development of a dedication to open communication and collaboration. It is in that realm
that we understand why big business and big government fear a woman with a voice.
1 Introduction
What is it that makes women uniquely in-tune to their environment? What does history tell us about the changes made by women in ecological integrity? Ultimately,
what can be done to protect and encourage this type of involvement in environmental conflict and advocacy?
Jane Goodall, Marjory Stoneman Douglas, Greta Thunberg, Berta Isabel Caceres
Flores and our very own Laura Westra; these women, these awe-inspiring warriors,
are just a few who have not only enhanced the world view of ecological integrity but
also helped to more clearly define it. Whether advocating for animals, protecting
natural resources, or seeking punishment and accountability for environmental
harms, these dedicated she-soldiers have championed their causes resulting in dramatic change.
Environmental Justice is the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all
people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and
policies. For centuries women have fought for equal rights, fair treatment, and the
right to be heard. In today’s world, these battles have prepared them to fight the
S. M. Lange (*)
Rees and Lange, P.C., Hobart, IN, USA
e-mail: Shaun@reeslegal.com
