Contributors to Yogecology: Spirit in the Soil

Satish Kumar

Satish Kumar is a peace activist, environmentalist, and founder of Schumacher College in the UK, a globally renowned centre for ecological studies. As the editor emeritus of Resurgence & Ecologist Magazine, he has spent decades advocating for holistic living and sustainability. His philosophies, rooted in the principles of interconnectedness and simplicity, align with the book’s themes of ecospirituality and environmental care. Through his contributions, he inspires readers to adopt lifestyles that prioritise harmony with nature.

Ruma Devi

Ruma Devi is an Indian traditional handicraft fashion designer and social worker from Barmer, Rajasthan. Despite facing numerous challenges, including dropping out of school in the 8th grade, she learned embroidery from her grandmother and went on to empower over 30,000 rural women. Her work has earned her the prestigious Nari Shakti Puraskar (2019), the highest civilian honour an Indian woman can receive. She brings to Yogecology an inspiring story of empowering rural women through traditional crafts, showcasing the vital link between sustainable livelihoods, cultural heritage, and ecological conservation.

Dr. H. R. Nagendra

Dr. H. R. Nagendra is the Chancellor of S-VYASA (Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana), a premier university dedicated to the study and practice of yoga. Renowned for his expertise in integrating ancient yogic wisdom with modern science, he has been a pioneer in promoting yoga as a holistic solution for personal and environmental well-being. In Yogecology, he contributes a thought-provoking preface that explores the profound connection between yoga and ecology, offering insights into how spiritual practices can foster ecological balance.

Prof. Milind Kumar Sharma

Prof. Milind Kumar Sharma is a distinguished academic from MBM University, Jodhpur, with a focus on cultural heritage and its intersection with environmental conservation. His work bridges traditional practices and contemporary ecological challenges, highlighting the enduring relevance of cultural wisdom. In Yogecology, he contributes a section that delves into the role of cultural traditions in fostering ecological awareness, providing a valuable perspective on how heritage and sustainability are deeply intertwined.

Hargila Baideo (Purnima Devi Barman)

Purnima Devi Barman, affectionately known as the "Stork Sister," is an award-winning conservation biologist dedicated to saving the endangered Greater Adjutant Stork, locally known as the Hargila, in Assam, India. Through her work with the Aaranyak NGO, she has empowered local women by involving them in conservation efforts, creating a network of "Hargila Army" members who protect nesting sites and educate their communities. Her inclusion in Yogecology highlights how grassroots, women-led conservation movements can safeguard biodiversity while fostering social and economic empowerment.

Gajendra Singh Shekawat

Gajendra Singh Shekawat, as Union Minister for Jal Shakti (Water Power) in the Government of India, has launched initiatives like the "Jal Shakti Abhiyan" to promote water conservation and management. The latest edition, "Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain 2024," emphasises the role of women in water conservation with the theme "Nari Shakti se Jal Shakti" (Women Power for Water Power), encouraging community participation and sustainable water management practices. He brings to Yogecology a focus on water conservation and sustainable resource management, illustrating the critical role of governmental initiatives and community participation in addressing ecological challenges.

Prof. N.S. Shekhawat

Prof. N.S. Shekhawat is a renowned botanist at Jai Narain Vyas University in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. His research primarily focuses on plant breeding and the conservation of bioresources in the Thar Desert. He has published extensively in these areas, contributing to both classical and molecular approaches to plant breeding. His work aims to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable management of desert flora, making significant strides in the field of botany. He brings to Yogecology his expertise in desert ecology and plant conservation, offering valuable insights into sustainable practices for preserving the unique biodiversity of arid regions.

Tiasa Adhya

Tiasa Adhya is a wildlife biologist and conservationist recognised for her groundbreaking work with the endangered Fishing Cat in West Bengal, India. She co-founded the Fishing Cat Project, which raises awareness about the species and advocates for its protection in wetlands, where human-wildlife conflict is a growing concern. Her efforts have earned her the Nari Shakti Puruskar, India’s highest civilian award for women. In Yogecology, her work exemplifies the critical role of targeted conservation initiatives in protecting vulnerable species and preserving ecosystems vital to their survival.

Dr. A. Sadhana Rajkumar

Dr. A. Sadhana Rajkumar, a nutritionist from Chennai, has become a well-known sparrow conservationist. She started her campaign to revive the sparrow population after noticing their decline. Since 2010, she has been distributing sparrow nests for free across India. Her efforts have resulted in over 1,700 nests being placed, helping to create safe spaces for sparrows to nest and thrive. Dr. Rajkumar's dedication has earned her the title of "Sparrow Saviour" and has significantly contributed to the conservation of this bird species. She brings to Yogecology a passionate commitment to urban wildlife conservation, emphasising the importance of protecting biodiversity in rapidly developing environments.

Himmata Ram Bhambhu

Himmata Ram Bhambhu, also known as the "Tree Man of Rajasthan," is a dedicated social worker, nature lover, conservationist, and environmentalist from Nagaur district, Rajasthan. Throughout his life has been actively involved in planting over 5.5 lakh trees and promoting environmental conservation. His efforts have earned him several awards, including the prestigious Padma Shri in 20202. Bhambhu's work focuses on creating green patches and rehabilitating wildlife, making a significant impact on the environment. He brings to Yogecology an inspiring example of grassroots environmental activism, demonstrating the transformative impact of large-scale tree planting and community-led conservation efforts.

Pujya Swami Samvit Somgiri Maharaj

Swami Samvit Somgiri Maharaj is a revered spiritual leader from the Shiv Bari Temple in Bikaner, Rajasthan. Known for his teachings on the interconnectedness of humanity and nature, he advocates for a spiritual approach to ecological conservation, emphasising the sacred relationship between humans and the Earth. His wisdom serves as a reminder of the ancient traditions that view nature as divine and humans as stewards of the planet. In Yogecology, his perspective enriches the discussion on eco-spirituality, encouraging readers to see environmental care as a moral and spiritual duty.

Dr. Estelle Fourat

Dr. Estelle Fourat is a sociologist with a focus on food practices and social inclusion. Her research explores the cultural dimensions of food access and dietary decisions, particularly among vulnerable populations like migrants. She has a PhD in sociology from the University of Toulouse Jean Jaurès and has held postdoctoral positions at the Université Libre de Brussels and the Institut de recherche interdisciplinaire sur les enjeux sociaux (Iris, EHESS, Paris). Dr. Fourat's work aims to understand and improve food practices and social inclusion for asylum seekers and migrants. She brings to Yogecology a sociological perspective on the relationship between humans and nature, enriching the discussion with insights into how societal behaviours influence ecological sustainability.

Sophia Buggs

Sophia Buggs, also known as "Lady Buggs," is an urban farmer and founder of Lady Buggs Farm in Youngstown, Ohio. Dedicated to promoting food sovereignty, she focuses on creating sustainable urban farming systems that address food insecurity and strengthen community health. Her work emphasises the importance of growing fresh, organic produce locally, even in urban settings. In Yogecology, her contributions reflect the transformative power of urban agriculture in reconnecting people with the land and fostering ecological awareness.

Harku Jandu

Harku Jandu is a local contributor from Khatora, Nagaur District, Rajasthan, who brings valuable firsthand knowledge of rural life and environmental challenges in the region. His experiences provide a window into the real-world issues faced by communities living in arid environments, including water scarcity, land degradation, and the delicate balance required to sustain agriculture and biodiversity. Through his contributions to Yogecology he offers a vital perspective on how traditional practices, local wisdom, and community-led initiatives can complement modern conservation strategies to address ecological challenges in Rajasthan.

Anil Shrestha, PhD

Dr. Anil Shrestha is a professor and chair of the Department of Viticulture and Enology at California State University, Fresno. Specialising in weed science and sustainable agriculture, he integrates ecological principles into modern farming practices to address issues such as soil degradation and water scarcity. His research promotes environmentally friendly agricultural techniques that improve crop yield while conserving resources. He provides valuable insight into ecological balance and sustainable resource management.

Kristen Ali Eglinton

Kristen Ali Eglinton, PhD, is an innovative applied social scientist and multimedia ethnographer. She is the Executive Director of the Footage Foundation, an international NGO 

dedicated to amplifying the voices of vulnerable communities including young women survivors of violence. Dr. Eglinton 

holds a doctorate in social and educational research from the University of Cambridge and has over fifteen years of 

experience in using participatory multimedia methods to empower youth and communities worldwide. She brings to Yogecology a focus on the power of storytelling and creative expression, highlighting their role in inspiring youth-driven social and ecological change.

Durgesh Nandhini

Durgesh Nandhini is a sustainability advocate who has practised a zero-waste lifestyle since 2015. Her journey into zero-waste living has inspired many to adopt eco-friendly habits, focusing on reducing waste, reusing resources, and making mindful consumer choices. In the book, her story provides practical examples of how individuals can lead more sustainable lives, contributing to global efforts to combat waste and pollution. Her approach demonstrates that small, consistent changes can have a significant impact on the environment.

Oran B. Hesterman, PhD

Dr. Oran B. Hesterman is the founder and CEO of the Fair Food Network, a US-based organisation committed to creating equitable food systems. As an author and advocate for sustainable agriculture, he champions policies and practices that make healthy, locally grown food accessible to all while supporting small-scale farmers. His contributions to Yogecology resonate with its emphasis on ethical and sustainable living, highlighting the importance of rethinking our global food systems to align with ecological principles.

Steve Brill

Steve Brill, popularly known as "Wildman," is an expert forager, educator, and environmental advocate based in New York. He is widely recognised for his Wild Edibles Forage App, which teaches users how to identify and sustainably harvest wild plants and mushrooms. His workshops and resources encourage people to reconnect with nature and gain a deeper appreciation for the food sources available in their local environments. In Yogecology, his contributions underscore the importance of foraging as a sustainable practice and a way to rebuild humanity’s connection with the natural world.

Valeria Margherita Mosca

Valeria Margherita Mosca is an Italian researcher and the founder of Wood*ing Wild Food Lab, where she explores the role of wild food in sustainable diets and ecosystems. Her work bridges the gap between traditional foraging practices and modern culinary innovation, promoting the use of wild plants as both a sustainable food source and a means of reconnecting with nature. Her inclusion in Yogecology aligns with its themes of ecological restoration and sustainable living, offering practical insights into the benefits of wild food.

Jesse Slater

Jesse Slater is a community organiser and environmental activist with the Grand Rapids Autonomous Support System (GRASS) in Michigan, USA. GRASS focuses on building community resilience through education and self-sufficient initiatives, particularly in urban areas. Jesse’s contributions to Yogecology reflect the importance of grassroots efforts in addressing ecological and social challenges, encouraging readers to take local action to foster sustainability and self-reliance.