The term "nature-positive" refers to products, ingredients, or materials that come from natural sources and are believed to be better for the environment and health. However, not all natural products are necessarily safe or effective. Some toxic chemicals found in nature, such as mercury, snake venom, arsenic, and ricin from castor beans, can pose risks to human health
. Nature-positive products can have various benefits, such as improving mental health, promoting positive emotions, and reducing negative thoughts
. Spending time in nature has been shown to benefit mental health by reducing stress and negative emotions, restoring attention, and promoting overall well- being
. However, it is essential to consider the environmental impact of extracting and processing natural ingredients, as well as the potential risks associated with their use. Some challenges and considerations related to nature-positive products include:
- Sustainability : The use of natural ingredients can support biodiversity, sequester carbon, and filter water, but the harvesting process may also increase greenhouse gas emissions, depending on factors such as when and where the ingredients are harvested
- Feasibility and ethics : In some cases, sourcing natural ingredients may not be feasible or ethically acceptable due to factors such as scarce resources or social and structural constraints
- Synthetic alternatives : Manufacturers of lab-produced synthetics often argue that their methods do not exhaust the planet of commercially viable resources without limitations from scarce natural ingredients
In conclusion, while nature-positive products have potential benefits for mental health and the environment, it is crucial to consider the potential risks and challenges associated with their use and production. Balancing the benefits and drawbacks of natural and synthetic ingredients is essential for creating sustainable and effective products that promote well-being without harming the environment or human health.
