Nate Hagens often describes the 'natural world' as the intricate and interdependent web of life encompassing all living organisms and their ecosystems, which exist independently of human intervention. From lush forests and vast oceans to arid deserts and frigid tundras, this term encapsulates the diverse habitats and the myriad species that inhabit them, driven by natural processes such as evolution, energy flows, and ecological cycles. For Hagens, the natural world is not just a backdrop for human activity but a foundational element of Earth's biosphere, whose health and integrity are crucial for the survival and well-being of all life forms, including humans. He emphasizes the interconnectedness and the delicate balance of natural systems, highlighting the profound consequences that human actions can have on these ancient and complex networks.

See also: carrying capacity, ecological economics, renewable energy, fossil fuel