Does Nature Have a Life of its Own? Should Rivers Have Legal Rights? – Meet the Author Robert Macfarlane

02 Apr, 2026

The British author Robert Macfarlane is described as the foremost nature writer of our time.

Robert Macfarlane. Photo: Fredrik Stedjer/DSR

In his latest international bestseller, “Is a River Alive?”, he challenges us to fundamentally rethink our approach. What happens if we shift our focus away from the prevailing anthropocentric idea – that the Earth’s resources exist solely for our benefit?

Robert Macfarlane argues that rivers, mountains, lakes, seas and trees are living beings and should therefore be granted rights, just as humans and animals are.

In a conversation with journalist Marika Griehsel, he recounts encounters with extraordinary individuals who have dedicated their lives to protecting waterways from damming, pollution and mining.

He describes how these people inspire hope for the future – and how the power of the rivers eventually took hold of Macfalane himself and became a co-author of his acclaimed book.

You can find a longer version of the interview below and under the ‘Meet the Author’ tab.

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