Watching Nature Disappear: A Conversation with Claire (47)

Part 2 of the "Three Generations, One Planet" series.

Claire grew up in a neighborhood where children spent their afternoons outdoors. Looking back, she reflects on how both cities and daily life have transformed—and why protecting the environment feels increasingly urgent.

What's your earliest memory of nature?

"My neighbors used to have pigs in their yards, and my friends and I used to hang out on the small hill behind our homes."

What environmental issue concerns you the most today, and why?

"I think it's the air pollution. Air pollution is really invisible and small, so it may get into our skin and damage the skin."

What's one thing you think everyone could do to help the environment?

"Bring your own bottles."

Do you think enough is being done to protect the environment?

"I think it will never be enough, because there will always be trash being produced, and if people can't find a way to deal with all this trash, the problem will remain unsolved."

How has your perspective on the environment changed over the years?

"As I become older, I realize how rare the scenarios from my childhood are becoming. It seems like the number of buildings is multiplying, and even though I also work and live in buildings and benefit from technologies, that still makes me really sad."

Next: Nick shares memories from a childhood where rivers, gardens, and wildlife were simply part of everyday life.