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Brain in ecosystems – interactions

Published: 15/10/2024
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Date of the last update: 15.10.2024

With growing awareness of the impact of the environment on mental and physical health, it is worth leaning into how climate change and different environmental conditions affect brain function and what adaptive mechanisms enable the brain to function properly under changing conditions.

Neuroscience can provide us with answers to this and other questions. As a scientific discipline that studies the structures and functions of the nervous system, it provides valuable information on neuroplasticity, i.e. the brain’s ability to reorganise and adapt in response to experience and environmental changes. This neural plasticity is crucial to understanding how the brain copes with sensory overload and how it can adapt to new challenges, such as climate change. Understanding these processes is essential for developing effective strategies to support mental and neurological health in the face of contemporary challenges. 

Table of contents:

  1. Is the brain an ecosystem?
  2. How does the brain cope in nature?
  3. Can nature change the way the brain functions?
  4. Impact of climate change on the functioning of the nervous system
  5. Summary

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Is the brain an ecosystem?

In the traditional understanding, the brain is not an ecosystem, but as the central organ of the nervous system it is often compared to a complex ecosystem, where billions of neurons and their connections form a dynamic network, analogous to the interactions of organisms in a natural ecosystem. Research into how the brain functions in an environmental context reveals that the environment has a significant impact on mental and physical health, influencing how information is processed and how bodily functions are regulated. 

How does the brain cope in nature?

The human brain, over thousands of years, has undergone and is undergoing numerous evolutions due to the need to constantly adapt to a variety of environmental conditions. Historically, the human brain only functioned in natural environments such as forests, sea, mountains, etc., where our senses such as sight, hearing and smell were crucial for survival and adaptation to changing conditions. In addition, our senses were adapted to accurately recognise danger, locate food and orient ourselves in the field, which influenced the way we processed information and reacted to our surroundings. 

Today, the human brain is constantly adapting to changing environmental conditions. Not only in the context of climate change, but especially with the current conditions we live in. Specifically, the constant influx of information from various sources, leading to sensory overload. In response to these stimuli, the brain develops new adaptive mechanisms, such as increased neuronal plasticity, which enables it to better process information and cope with stress.  

In this regard, it is important to emphasise that an excess of stimuli leads to negative effects, such as a decrease in the ability to concentrate or an increase in anxiety. Children in particular are vulnerable to these negative effects, as their brains are undergoing intensive development and may find it difficult to process excess information efficiently, affecting their cognitive and emotional abilities. 

In animals, on the other hand, the situation is that changes in brain structure, such as an increase in the number of neurons and synaptic connections, have allowed animals to better adapt to living in different ecosystems over the years. In cities, where environmental conditions are significantly altered, animals have had to adapt their behaviour and cognitive abilities in order to survive in a new, artificial environment.  

For example, migratory birds such as sparrows have been observed to develop larger brain areas responsible for navigation and spatial memory, allowing them to orient themselves effectively during long migrations.  

Can nature change the way the brain functions?

Yes. Nature continues to offer beneficial stimuli that promote brain regeneration, which is crucial for the development of the species and the maintenance of mental health. The phenomenon of neuroplasticity allows the brain to adapt to changing environmental conditions. For example, different sensory experiences and interactions with the environment can lead to permanent and beneficial changes in brain structure and function.  

And concreteness: contact with nature, even in the form of walks in an urban park, leads to improved cognitive function, lower stress levels and increased overall wellbeing. Plants, green spaces and natural landscapes have the potential to revitalise the brain, promote regenerative processes and improve mood.  

Furthermore, examples of research show that: 

  • Regular contact with nature increases endorphin levels, thereby improving our ability to cope with the challenges and stresses of everyday life. 
  • Exposure to a natural environment can improve mental health and reduce stress levels. 
  • People who spend time in green spaces experience an improvement in mood and a reduction in symptoms of depression, which may be linked to increased access to sunlight and fresh air.  
  • Children who regularly play outdoors show better scores on cognitive tests and a greater ability to concentrate, suggesting a positive impact of nature on brain development and cognitive function. 

Explore more: How nature impacts mental health

Impact of climate change on the functioning of the nervous system

Climate change has a significant impact on the functioning of the nervous system in both humans and other organisms. Increases in temperature, changes in air quality and increased exposure to extreme weather events all contribute to brain and nervous system dysfunction. High temperatures and heat waves are associated with a higher risk of health problems such as stroke, sleep disturbances and increased levels of stress and anxiety. Air pollution, including increased concentrations of dust and toxic substances, leads to brain inflammation, impairing cognitive abilities and accelerating neurodegenerative processes.  

In addition, climate change influences the incidence of climate ecologies, resulting in a higher incidence of depression and anxiety, especially in areas that are directly affected by natural disasters or have limited access to health care resources. Therefore, understanding the impact of climate change on the nervous system is key to developing strategies to protect public health in the face of increasing environmental challenges. 

Summary

In summary, the brain, although not an ecosystem in the traditional sense, acts as a complex network, similar to natural ecosystems, where different stimuli affect its functioning. The evolution and adaptation of the brain to changing environmental conditions demonstrate the importance of adaptive mechanisms in coping with sensory overload and the impact of climate change. Contact with nature, although beneficial for brain health, is distorted by negative environmental effects, such as climate change or overstimulation resulting from human lifestyles, which lead to nervous system dysfunction. It is therefore important to understand these interactions and develop health strategies that take into account the impact of climate change on brain function. Not forgetting the important role of constant contact with nature to regenerate the brain, improve cognitive function and maintain overall mental and emotional health. 

Naturally Balanced
The Naturally Balanced team includes experts in their field who create the best content for you, collaborating on their knowledge and experience.