In this keynote session, Zach Bush delves deep into the intricate relationship between human health and the environment. Starting with a personal reflection on his medical journey, Bush highlights the profound revelations of the human genome and our surprising genetic similarities with other species. He underscores the importance of recognizing humanity as an ecosystem, emphasizing that the human body is a marvel of nature, representing the pinnacle of technological advancement on Earth.
Bush draws parallels between the universe's star nurseries and the miraculous explosion of life within a mother's womb, illustrating the profound interconnectedness of all existence. He touches upon the alarming rise in Autism Spectrum Disorder and the potential reasons behind it, urging listeners to reconnect with their original purpose.
Drawing from his experiences as a hospice doctor and personal near-death experiences, Bush emphasizes the importance of understanding life rather than merely managing diseases. He paints a concerning picture of the Earth's current state, likening it to a patient with emphysema, and discusses the detrimental effects of modern farming practices and chemicals like glyphosate on our planet's health.
However, amidst these challenges, Bush offers a beacon of hope. He speaks of the resilience of nature and how, when connected to it, we can overcome even our gravest mistakes. The keynote concludes with a call to action for physicians and individuals alike to embrace permaculture, to rediscover our culture, and to understand our primary role as stewards of nature.