India, Feb. 14 -- Some of my formative memories are that of playing in the mud outside my home, observing the minute world of insects, listening to birdcalls and playing with the neighbourhood cats. Growing up on the residential campus of Rishi Valley School, located in rural Andhra Pradesh, I had the privilege of a childhood immersed in nature.

Closeness to nature was an integral element of the holistic philosophy of education envisioned by the philosopher-teacher, Jiddu Krishnamurti, who established the school. For him, a relationship with nature is also essential for developing a relationship with and awareness of oneself and others, and a step towards awakening intelligence.

Long before we are introduced to the 'environment' as a su...