Biocultural ethics and Earth stewardship: a novel integration to revitalize multiple values of nature

The Values Assessment (VA) of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) highlights that contemporary political decisions prioritize economic values of nature while neglecting aesthetic, ecological, and spiritual values. This omission serves as an indirect driver of socio-environmental crises by reinforcing the dominant economic development paradigm that has fueled global biocultural homogenization. To address this problem, we adapt the “3Hs” model—habitat, habits, and co-inhabitants (hábitats, hábitos, co-habitantes, in Spanish)— of the biocultural ethic that offers a heuristic and normative approach to sustaining biological and cultural diversity. We examine case studies on agroecology, education, and protected areas to illustrate Earth Stewardship and biocultural conservation. Integrating these perspectives into decision making fosters sustainable and just futures, as recognized by IPBES-VA’s pathways for revitalizing diverse values of nature. Regarding habits, we provide evidence of educational programs worldwide that promote Earth Stewardship by encouraging respect, reciprocity, and sustainability. These approaches incorporate diverse cultural perspectives, blending experiential learning with ecological knowledge to strengthen biocultural relationships and inspire environmental responsibility. Regarding co-inhabitants, we show how numerous local communities coexist with diverse beings and landscapes, shaping agro- and forest-ecosystems. Despite threats like monocultures, local communities uphold biocultural ethics, preserving biodiversity, food sovereignty, and reciprocal respect for nature. Regarding habitats, we highlight initiatives that integrate conservation with cultural heritage and sustainable development. Despite challenges, PAs play a crucial role in Earth Stewardship and biocultural conservation. The “3Hs” model allows us to understand that every habitat must be cared for, and to put into action IPBES-VA recommendations, such as expanding the range of nature values included in decision making and socio-environmental policies. In this way, the “3Hs” model of biocultural ethics, although rooted in local realities, can acquire global power to transit toward more just and sustainable futures, such as those envisioned by IPBES-VA.