Table 2 Evolution of the relationship between human culture and ecology.
From: Design reflections on the integrated development of rural cultural and ecological resources in China
Civilization stage | Main cultural characteristics | Ecological knowledge and practices | Energy use | Key environmental issues |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Hunter-gatherer civilization | Adapted to nature, relied on natural resources | Revered nature, maintained a symbiotic relationship with the environment | Utilized biomass energy (e.g., wood, animal fat) | Habitat protection, sustainable resource use |
Agricultural civilization | Land cultivation and crop planting | Recognized natural cycles, initial management of nature for agricultural production | Utilized biomass energy, water power | Land degradation, soil erosion, biodiversity loss |
Industrial civilization | Large-scale industrial production, urbanization | Viewed nature as a resource reservoir, maximized economic benefits | Depended on fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas) | Air pollution, water pollution, soil contamination, global climate change |
Ecological civilization | Emphasized ecological balance, pursued sustainable development | Understood the complexity of ecosystems, aimed to protect and restore ecological functions | Developed clean energy (solar, wind, biomass, etc.) | Biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration, carbon neutrality, resource recycling |
