New Growth in the Garden
When I first planted seeds, I barely thought about the process. I just dug holes, dropped in the seeds, covered them, and gave them some water. It was easy enough, but it didn’t seem special at the time. A few weeks later, though, I was blown away by what I saw little green sprouts popping up through the soil! The joy and pride I felt then were something else. Seeing those plants come to life really deepened my appreciation for nature.
Looking Through a Green Criminology Lens
That experience helped link what we talk about in class, green criminology, to reality. This field is all about the damage humans do to the environment, harming ecosystems, animals, and each other. Unlike conventional crime studies, green criminology zeros in on acts that degrade our planet. According to Lynch et al. (2017), it’s about recognizing how such destruction hits people and nature alike.
Working in the garden helped me understand how fragile ecosystems can be. The seeds only sprouted because they had access to healthy soil, water, sunlight, and ongoing care. If any of those elements were missing, the plants may not have survived. This made me think about larger environmental issues such as pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change. These problems can disrupt ecosystems in the same way that a lack of water or poor soil can prevent a plant from growing.
Another point I learned from green criminology is that ecosystems themselves can be harmed and should be considered when discussing justice and victimization. Lynch and Long (2022) argue that green criminology recognizes that ecosystems and non-human species can be victims of environmental harm. Seeing the sprouts emerge from the ground reminded me that nature is not something separate from us. Healthy ecosystems support all forms of life, including our food systems and communities.
More Than Just Gardening
This gardening experience shifted how I view environmental issues. What started as a basic task turned out to be a lesson on responsibility and sustainability. Seeing those seeds grow taught me that protecting the environment means helping ecosystems flourish, not just avoiding damage. This project made green criminology real for me. It wasn’t just textbook material anymore, but something I could witness growing right there in front of me.
Sources Lynch, M. J., Long, M. A., Stretesky, P. B., & Barrett, K. L. (2017). Green Criminology: Crime, Justice, and the Environment. Lynch, M. J., & Long, M. A. (2022). Green Criminology: Capitalism, Green Crime and Justice, and Environmental Destruction.
Hi Ria, I enjoyed reading your post about your gardening experience and how green criminology has given you a new perspective to look at. Even with me, I always considered gardening as a simple task of planting a seed and have it grow. What we do not realize is all the little things that are required for it to be successful. The right soil, watering technique, and climate, all contribute to the growth of a seed. It is interesting to see as we progress in the course how much is involved in the backend of farming and it has definitely made me appreciate agriculture a lot more.