For as long as humans have explored, we have left our mark on the environment—for better or worse. From the disappearance of prehistoric animals to the mountains of trash left behind on Everest, our drive to discover new places has always had consequences.

In the environmental domain of exploring, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, examine the complex relationship between human curiosity and the natural world, reflecting on both its unintended harms and its role in conservation. They discuss the impact of travel, the ethics of adventure, and the importance of mindful exploration. Whether journeying to remote destinations or finding wonder in familiar landscapes, this conversation considers how discovery and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.