Greenwashing

The practice of making misleading or unsubstantiated claims about the environmental benefits of a product, service, or company policy. It involves conveying a false impression or providing misleading information about how a company’s products are more environmentally sound than they actually are. This deceptive marketing tactic is used to capitalise on growing consumer demand for environmentally friendly goods and services.

Anthropocene

A proposed geological epoch characterised by significant human impact on Earth’s geology and ecosystems. The term, derived from the Greek words “anthropos” (human) and “kainos” (new), suggests that human activities have become the dominant influence on the planet’s climate and environment. While the exact start date is debated, many scientists associate it with the Industrial Revolution in the late 18th century or the mid-20th century “Great Acceleration” of global changes. Key indicators include increased greenhouse gas emissions, widespread deforestation, biodiversity loss, and pervasive pollution.

Did you know that the term “Anthropocene” refers to the age of humans and suggests that our activities have significantly altered Earth’s geology and ecosystems? In fact, scientists estimate that human actions have already transformed over 50% of the planet’s surface! This dramatic change has led to discussions about whether we should officially recognise this new epoch in geological time. Interested? Continue learning about Anthropocene by Citizen Scientist Bryce Neale — student at the University of Pretoria.

Link: https://u22587782.wixsite.com/south-african-envi-1

Environmental Humanities

An interdisciplinary field that combines traditional humanities disciplines with environmental studies to explore the complex relationships between human culture and the natural world. It examines how cultural, ethical, and social factors shape our understanding of environmental challenges, encouraging critical analysis of ideologies and practices while providing historical context to inform contemporary solutions.

Explore how Suné Erasmus utilises the lens of environmental humanities in a visual essay entitled:

Unveiling the Quiet Destruction of Our Planet.

Link: https://erasmussune13.wixsite.com/when-the-day-won

Project Earth x Environmental Humanities

Project Earth is proud to present an exciting collaboration between Project Earth and the School of the Arts at the University of Pretoria’s third-year Visual Culture Studies course.

This innovative course, led by Dr Rory du Plessis, explores the communication processes that shape visual images and visual culture in society. Students have applied these techniques to interpret and understand environmental issues within our society, contributing to the broader Environmental Humanities agenda.

Take a peek at some of the students’ assignment contributions, which explore terms such as “Environmental Humanities” and “Anthropocene” through visual representations of environmental and climate issues in our society!

Slow Violence

Slow violence refers to gradual, often invisible forms of harm that occur over extended periods and across wide areas. Coined by Rob Nixon, it describes environmental degradation, pollution, and climate change impacts that unfold slowly but have severe, long-term consequences, particularly affecting vulnerable populations. This concept highlights how these attritional forms of damage often go unrecognised due to their cumulative nature and lack of immediate visibility.

What’s the link between wild dogs and slow violence? Find out more:

Link: https://suzettew15.wixsite.com/fragileearth/post/slow-violence-and-habitat-fragmentation

Photo: Image depicts a pack of wild dogs photographed close to Punda Maria rest camp, Kruger National Park. Photo taken by student (name not specified). 

Cup of Contradiction / Brooklyn, Pretoria by a Visual Culture Studies student

Explore how this “Cup of Contradiction” is a visual representation of Greenwashing. Can you think of any examples in your everyday life? See how this student visually captures environmental issues in their everyday experience.

Link: https://u22540939.wixsite.com/environmental-humani/gallery