Conservation and commercial approaches to forests as a resource seem diametrically opposed. What if we could align the financial incentives to balance both the ecological value living forest provide and access the raw material value? This is the vision of a managed "working forest". This novel approach to conservation grew from the realization that economics shaped the forest landscape. Forests became valued for timber and land development with clearcutting as a standard approach to maximize that value—a reality that led to the unintended consequence of forest loss and depletion. This new approach broadens society's view of the suite of goods and services healthy forest ecosystems provide, including the wood, water, wildlife, and well-balanced climate essential to a livable planet. By bringing together stakeholders to manage privately-held forests more deliberately, we can maintain healthier ecosystems while creating valuable resources and jobs that support the surrounding community. We can start to see the forest for more than the trees. Laurie A. Wayburn is the President and co-founder of Pacific Forest Trust. Her passion is creating, facilitating, and implementing a new vision for valuing, conserving, and managing forests in all their varied, complex splendor—the whole system. This management model can transform our reliance on timber products to pay the bills to one where we value and pay for all their essential gifts to us: water, climate, wildlife and renewal. A graduate of Harvard College, she worked with the United Nations Environment Program, as well as the Ecological Sciences Division of UNESCO (Man and Biosphere Program) in sustainable development for over a decade. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

In a world driven by self-interest, true fulfillment lies in selfless service and compassion. This talk explores the profound impact of dedicating oneself to the well-being of others, from feeding the hungry to caring for the sick and abandoned. P.U. Thomas, the founder of the prestigious Navajeevan Trust, feeds more than 5000 people daily and changed the lives of over 3000 psychiatric patients. Through his philanthrophic deeds, he has inspired audiences worldwide, proving that one person's compassion can ignite a wave of change. His story will not just inspire you- it will challenge you to see how one person's kindness an change the world. Through real-life experiences and heartfelt stories, we will uncover how acts of kindness not only uplift those in need but also bring deep purpose and joy to the giver. P. U. Thomas, affectionately known as ‘Thomas Chettan,’ a compassionate humanitarian from Kottayam, Kerala. As the founder of the Navajeevan Trust, he has dedicated his life to feeding thousands of hospital patients daily and rehabilitating the homeless and mentally challenged.His unwavering commitment to service has transformed countless lives, creating a support system that extends beyond mere sustenance to provide dignity and hope to society’s most vulnerable members.The impact of his work ripples through communities, inspiring others to join his mission and creating a movement of compassion that continues to grow and touch more lives each day. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx