Which is the Purest Form of Natural Water: Unveiling the Secrets of Pristine Hydration

Which is the purest form of natural water?

The purest form of natural water is generally considered to be **distilled water**, though it's important to understand what "purest" truly means in this context and why certain natural water sources are often perceived as more desirable for consumption.

I remember a camping trip years ago, deep in the Rocky Mountains. We'd hiked for hours, the sun beating down, and our water bottles were nearly empty. We finally stumbled upon a small, ice-cold stream trickling down from what looked like snowmelt high above. I was parched, and the water looked crystal clear, so I cupped my hands and took a long, refreshing drink. It was the best water I'd ever tasted. But was it the *purest*? This question has always lingered in the back of my mind, driving me to explore the nuances of natural water purity.

For many of us, the idea of "pure water" conjures images of pristine glaciers, untouched springs, or rain falling from a clear sky. We crave that unadulterated essence, free from the contaminants and artificial treatments that can plague our tap water. This quest for the purest natural water is not just about taste; it's about health, well-being, and a connection to the natural world. Let's dive deep into what makes water pure and explore the contenders for the title of the purest form of natural water.

Understanding Water Purity: More Than Just Clarity

When we talk about the purity of water, we're not just talking about how clear it looks. Clarity is certainly a visual indicator, but it's only one piece of a much larger puzzle. True purity in water refers to the absence of impurities, which can include:

Minerals: While some minerals are beneficial, excessive amounts can affect taste and, in some cases, health. Dissolved Solids: These are substances that have dissolved into the water, such as salts, metals, and organic compounds. Microorganisms: Bacteria, viruses, and parasites are significant concerns for water safety. Chemicals: This can include pesticides, herbicides, industrial pollutants, and chemicals used in water treatment processes. Particulates: These are tiny suspended particles that can make water cloudy.

The definition of "purest" can also be subjective. For drinking purposes, a completely mineral-free water might not be ideal from a taste or health perspective. Our bodies do require certain minerals, and they contribute to the refreshing taste we associate with good drinking water. So, while chemically speaking, a completely sterile, mineral-less water might be considered "purest" in terms of lack of contaminants, from a practical and health-conscious standpoint, it's a bit more nuanced.

The Scientific Benchmark: Distilled Water

Scientifically, the purest form of water is **distilled water**. This is water that has been boiled into vapor and then condensed back into liquid in a separate container. This process effectively removes almost all impurities, including minerals, salts, heavy metals, and most microorganisms. Imagine boiling a pot of water; the steam that rises is essentially pure H₂O, leaving behind the dissolved solids. When this steam cools and condenses, you get distilled water.

This is why laboratories and many scientific applications rely on distilled water. It provides a consistent, neutral baseline for experiments, ensuring that no dissolved substances interfere with the results. However, for everyday drinking, distilled water can taste flat and lack the refreshing quality that comes from naturally occurring minerals. Some proponents of distilled water suggest it can "detoxify" the body, but this claim lacks strong scientific backing. Our bodies are quite adept at handling the minerals found in natural drinking water, and the primary function of drinking water is hydration.

Contenders for the Purest Natural Water

While distilled water is the scientific benchmark, the natural world offers sources that come remarkably close, each with its own unique characteristics and perceived purity. These are the waters many of us seek out for their refreshing taste and the feeling of wholesomeness they provide.

1. Glacial Meltwater

Water originating from the slow melting of ancient glaciers is often cited as one of the purest natural water sources. These vast ice formations have been accumulating snow and ice for millennia, essentially acting as giant, natural distillation systems. As snow compacts over time, air bubbles are trapped, and impurities are often excluded from the ice crystals.

When glaciers melt, this water flows down through pristine, often barren rock, picking up very few dissolved minerals or contaminants. The journey from glacier to stream is typically short and through environments with minimal human impact. This results in water that is:

Low in dissolved solids: It has not had the opportunity to leach significant amounts of minerals from the earth. Low in chemical contaminants: The source is remote and protected from agricultural runoff and industrial pollution. Naturally cold: This contributes to its refreshing taste and can help inhibit the growth of some microorganisms.

However, even glacial meltwater isn't entirely devoid of substances. As it flows over rocks, it can pick up trace amounts of minerals, which contribute to its subtle taste. Furthermore, as glaciers recede due to climate change, the purity of meltwater can sometimes be compromised by pollutants that have been trapped in the ice for centuries, or by increased contact with exposed soil and rock.

2. Deep Aquifer Groundwater

Water that has percolated deep into the earth and is stored in underground rock formations called aquifers can be exceptionally pure. This water has undergone a natural filtration process as it seeped through layers of soil, sand, and rock over many years, sometimes even centuries.

The filtration through these geological layers is remarkably effective at removing suspended solids, bacteria, and larger contaminants. Additionally, the deep location of these aquifers often shields them from surface pollution.

Key characteristics of pure deep aquifer water include:

Natural filtration: The earth itself acts as a highly effective filter. Protection from surface contaminants: Being underground minimizes exposure to pollutants. Mineral content: Depending on the geological formations, this water can pick up beneficial minerals, contributing to a pleasant taste and potential health benefits.

The purity of groundwater can vary significantly depending on the depth of the aquifer and the geological makeup of the surrounding rock. Some aquifers might contain higher concentrations of certain minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, which can contribute to "hardness" in water but are generally considered healthy. In areas with significant industrial activity or agricultural use, even deep aquifers can be at risk of contamination through fissures or improperly sealed wells.

The process of accessing this water usually involves drilling wells. The depth of the well is crucial; shallower wells are more susceptible to surface contamination than deeper ones.

3. High-Altitude Spring Water

Natural springs, particularly those found at high altitudes and in remote, undeveloped areas, can be sources of very pure water. These springs emerge when groundwater, often from high-elevation sources, finds an opening to the surface.

The purity of spring water depends heavily on its source and the path it takes to emerge. Springs originating from protected, undeveloped watersheds are more likely to be pure. The water has often been filtered through the earth as it moved through the aquifer before emerging.

What makes high-altitude springs desirable:

Natural emergence: The water comes to the surface without the need for extensive drilling. Protected watersheds: Remote locations often mean less human interference and pollution. Mineral balance: As it flows underground, it can acquire a balanced mineral profile, contributing to a good taste.

It's important to note that not all springs are created equal. Some springs can be contaminated by surface runoff, especially during heavy rainfall or snowmelt. Identifying a spring that emerges from a deep, reliable source in a well-protected area is key to finding truly pure spring water. Bottled spring water brands often claim purity, but it's always a good idea to investigate their source and bottling practices if possible.

4. Rainwater (Under Specific Conditions)

Rainwater, especially when collected far from urban and industrial areas, can be a surprisingly pure source of water. As rain falls, it's essentially distilled by nature through evaporation and condensation.

However, the purity of rainwater is highly dependent on the environment it falls through and the surfaces it comes into contact with before collection. In pristine, unpolluted environments, rainwater can be very pure, with a low mineral content and minimal contaminants.

Challenges and considerations for rainwater purity:

Atmospheric pollutants: In industrialized or polluted areas, rainwater can absorb pollutants like acid rain components, heavy metals, and other airborne contaminants. Collection surfaces: The materials used for collecting rainwater (roofs, gutters) can introduce contaminants like dust, bird droppings, debris, and chemicals from roofing materials. Storage: Stored rainwater can become contaminated with bacteria, algae, and insects if not properly maintained.

For rainwater to be considered among the purest natural water, it needs to be collected in an environment with clean air and from clean, non-toxic collection surfaces, and then stored in a hygienic manner. Often, even collected rainwater is recommended to be filtered or purified further before drinking, especially if it's intended for consumption.

The Role of Minerals in "Pure" Water

This is where the concept of purity gets interesting. While chemically pure H₂O is ideal for certain scientific applications, for drinking water, a complete absence of minerals might not be optimal. Minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium are essential for bodily functions. They also contribute significantly to the taste of water, giving it that crisp, refreshing quality.

Water that has passed through mineral-rich rock formations, such as the water found in many natural springs and some groundwater sources, will contain dissolved minerals. This is often referred to as "hard water" if the mineral content is high. While excessively hard water can sometimes cause issues like scale buildup in pipes, the minerals themselves are not inherently impure and can be beneficial.

The Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) count is a common measurement used to assess the mineral content of water. Distilled water has a TDS of 0. High-quality natural drinking water typically ranges from 50 to 150 ppm (parts per million) TDS. Water with TDS above 300 ppm might start to taste "mineral-y" or even unpleasant to some.

Consider this table for a general comparison:

Water Type Typical TDS (ppm) Mineral Content Purity Perception Taste Profile Distilled Water 0-5 Extremely Low Chemically Purest Flat, Bland Glacial Meltwater 10-50 Very Low Naturally Very Pure Clean, Crisp, Subtle Deep Aquifer Groundwater 50-150 Moderate (varies) Naturally Pure, Mineral-Rich Smooth, Refreshing, Can be Mineral-Tasting High-Altitude Spring Water 50-200 Moderate to High (varies) Naturally Pure, Mineral-Balanced Varied, often complex and pleasant Tap Water (Treated) 50-300+ Varies widely, includes treatment chemicals Varies greatly, often treated Can be good to unpleasant depending on source and treatment Seawater 35,000+ Very High (salts) Impure for drinking Salty, Undrinkable

So, when we ask "which is the purest form of natural water," it's crucial to define what kind of purity we're after. For the absolute absence of everything but H₂O, it's distilled water. But for drinking, a water source that has been naturally filtered and contains a balanced profile of beneficial minerals might be considered "purest" in a more holistic and desirable sense.

Factors Affecting Natural Water Purity

The journey of water from its origin to our glass is fraught with potential points of contamination. Even the most seemingly pristine sources can be compromised by external factors. Understanding these factors helps us appreciate why truly pure natural water is a precious commodity.

1. Environmental Pollution

This is perhaps the most significant threat to the purity of natural water sources today. Industrial activities, agriculture, and urbanization release a cocktail of contaminants into the environment:

Industrial Discharge: Factories can release heavy metals, chemicals, and other toxic substances directly into waterways or indirectly through air pollution that settles into water sources. Agricultural Runoff: Fertilizers (nitrates, phosphates) and pesticides used in farming can leach into groundwater and surface water, leading to eutrophication and potential health risks. Urban Runoff: Rainwater washing over streets and impervious surfaces picks up oil, grease, heavy metals from vehicles, litter, and other pollutants, carrying them into rivers and lakes. Wastewater Treatment Plant Effluents: Even treated sewage can contain residual pharmaceuticals, hormones, and other micro-pollutants that can make their way into drinking water sources.

The remoteness of a water source is often a good indicator of its protection from these types of pollution. Glaciers that are far from industrial centers, or deep aquifers that are sealed off from surface activity, are generally less affected.

2. Geological Factors

The earth itself plays a role in the purity of water. As water travels underground, it can dissolve minerals from the rocks it encounters. While some minerals are beneficial, others can be problematic:

Arsenic and Fluoride: In certain geological regions, groundwater can naturally contain high levels of naturally occurring arsenic or fluoride, which can be harmful in significant concentrations. Radon: This radioactive gas can dissolve into groundwater from certain rock formations. Minerals affecting taste: High concentrations of iron or sulfur can give water an unpleasant metallic or rotten egg smell and taste.

Conversely, geological formations can also act as natural filters. Layers of sand and gravel are excellent at removing suspended solids and some microorganisms. The longer water is in contact with these beneficial geological layers, the more it is naturally purified.

3. Biological Contamination

Living organisms, both microscopic and macroscopic, can also impact water purity:

Bacteria and Viruses: Pathogens like E. coli, Giardia, and Cryptosporidium can enter water sources from animal waste (wildlife or livestock) or human sewage. These are a primary concern for public health and are why water is often disinfected. Algae Blooms: In surface waters with high nutrient levels (often from agricultural runoff), algae can bloom rapidly. Some algae produce toxins that can be harmful. Insects and Small Animals: While not a major purity concern in terms of toxicity, their presence can affect the aesthetic quality and indicate potential entry points for microorganisms.

Natural filtration processes, like those in deep aquifers, are very effective at removing most bacteria and larger biological contaminants. However, surface waters are more vulnerable.

4. Human Intervention and Infrastructure

Even when a natural water source is inherently pure, human intervention can introduce impurities:

Improper Well Construction: Wells that are not properly sealed can allow surface water and contaminants to seep into the aquifer. Leaking Pipes: The infrastructure that carries water from its source to our taps can be a source of contamination if pipes are old, corroded, or made of materials that leach into the water (e.g., lead). Treatment Chemicals: While essential for public safety, chemicals like chlorine and chloramine used in municipal water treatment can alter the taste and, in some cases, react with organic matter to form byproducts that some people prefer to avoid.

My own experience with bottled water has sometimes been surprising. While I expect pristine purity from premium brands, I've encountered some that tasted oddly processed or even slightly chemical. This highlights how processing and bottling can, in rare cases, affect the perceived purity and taste of even naturally sourced water.

Assessing Water Purity: Tests and Indicators

So, how can we gauge the purity of our water, whether it's from a tap, a bottle, or a natural source? There are several methods, ranging from simple observations to sophisticated laboratory tests.

1. Visual Inspection and Taste

While not definitive, these are our first lines of defense. If water appears cloudy, has visible particles, or an off-putting smell or taste, it's a strong indicator of impurities. However, many harmful contaminants are invisible and odorless, so this is not a reliable method for ensuring safety.

2. Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) Meters

These handheld devices measure the concentration of dissolved substances in water. As mentioned earlier, they provide a general indication of how much "stuff" is dissolved in the water. A low TDS reading generally suggests higher purity in terms of dissolved minerals and salts. However, it won't tell you what those dissolved solids are (e.g., beneficial minerals vs. harmful contaminants).

3. Water Testing Kits

You can purchase home water testing kits that check for common contaminants like lead, chlorine, pesticides, and bacteria. These kits are more specific than TDS meters but still offer a snapshot and may not be as accurate as laboratory testing.

4. Professional Laboratory Analysis

For the most accurate and comprehensive assessment, sending a water sample to a certified laboratory is the best option. They can test for a wide range of contaminants, including:

Heavy metals (lead, mercury, arsenic) Bacteria and viruses Pesticides and herbicides Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Nitrates and nitrites pH levels Total hardness and alkalinity

This level of testing is often recommended for well water or if you have specific concerns about your water source.

My Perspective on the "Purest" Natural Water

From my perspective, the "purest" form of natural water for drinking is a nuanced concept. While distilled water is technically the purest in terms of absence of dissolved substances, it lacks the characteristics that make water truly enjoyable and, arguably, beneficial for regular consumption. I lean towards natural waters that have undergone significant natural filtration and possess a balanced mineral profile.

This would include pristine glacial meltwater from untouched regions and deep aquifer groundwater that has been filtered through ancient rock layers. These sources, in my experience, offer a clean, refreshing taste that speaks of their origin. They feel vital and wholesome. The subtle minerality adds a pleasant mouthfeel and flavor that flat, distilled water simply cannot replicate.

I've had the good fortune to taste water from remote mountain springs in New Zealand, and it was remarkable. It was cool, incredibly smooth, and had a subtle, clean flavor that was profoundly satisfying. It felt like drinking liquid life. This aligns with my belief that the purest natural water is not merely devoid of contaminants but also possesses a beneficial, balanced composition that nature intended.

However, it's crucial to temper this ideal with reality. Access to such pristine sources is rare for most people. Furthermore, even these sources can be compromised. This is why understanding water quality and, where necessary, employing filtration or purification methods is so important for everyday drinking water.

The Role of Filtration and Purification

Given the challenges to natural water purity, many people turn to filtration and purification methods to ensure their drinking water is safe and tastes good. These methods can enhance the purity of even less-than-ideal natural sources.

1. Filtration

Filtration involves passing water through a medium that physically removes contaminants.

Activated Carbon Filters: Excellent at removing chlorine, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and improving taste and odor. Ceramic Filters: Effective at removing bacteria, sediment, and protozoa. Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems: These are highly effective at removing a broad spectrum of contaminants, including dissolved solids, heavy metals, and chemicals. However, they also remove beneficial minerals, so remineralization might be desired. Ultrafiltration (UF) and Microfiltration (MF): These use membranes with specific pore sizes to remove suspended solids, bacteria, and larger microorganisms.

A multi-stage filtration system, often found in under-sink or countertop units, can provide a very high level of purity for drinking water, approaching that of distilled water but with the option to retain or reintroduce beneficial minerals.

2. Purification

Purification methods aim to inactivate or destroy microorganisms.

Boiling: A simple and effective way to kill most bacteria, viruses, and parasites. UV (Ultraviolet) Sterilization: Uses UV light to damage the DNA of microorganisms, rendering them unable to reproduce. This is a chemical-free method. Ozonation: Involves treating water with ozone gas, a powerful oxidant that kills microorganisms and can also help remove certain chemical contaminants.

For camping or emergency situations, a combination of filtration and boiling or UV treatment is often recommended for maximum safety. For home use, integrated systems that combine filtration with UV or RO are common.

Frequently Asked Questions about Purest Natural Water

How can I find the purest natural water near me?

Finding truly pure natural water sources near you can be challenging and often requires extensive research and careful assessment. Your best bet is to look for areas with minimal human impact. This might include:

Remote wilderness areas: National parks, pristine forests, or mountainous regions far from industrial and agricultural activity are good places to start. High-altitude streams and springs: Water emerging directly from the earth at high elevations, especially if the watershed is undeveloped, is a strong candidate. Protected watersheds: Some municipalities or conservation areas have well-protected natural water sources. However, these are often for public water supply and not directly accessible for personal collection.

Before collecting water from any natural source, it's crucial to:

Assess the surrounding environment: Look for signs of pollution, agricultural activity, or industrial sites upstream. Observe the water: Is it clear and odorless? Does it appear stagnant or flowing? Consider the source: Is it a fast-flowing stream, a deep spring, or a slow-moving pool? Fast-flowing, clear water from a spring is generally a better sign than a still pond. Always purify or filter: Even the clearest natural water can harbor invisible pathogens. It's always a good practice to filter and/or purify any water collected from natural sources before drinking it. Methods like boiling, UV sterilization, or using a reputable water filter designed for backcountry use are essential.

It's also worth noting that in many regions, collecting water from natural sources for personal consumption may be regulated or even prohibited to protect both the water source and public health. Always be aware of local regulations and practice responsible collection if permitted.

Why is distilled water not ideal for everyday drinking, even if it's the purest?

Distilled water is the purest form of water in that it contains virtually no dissolved minerals or salts. While this might sound ideal, it's not necessarily the best choice for everyday drinking for several reasons:

Taste: Minerals contribute significantly to the taste and mouthfeel of water. Distilled water can taste flat, bland, or even slightly metallic because it lacks these flavor-enhancing compounds. Many people find it unpalatable for regular consumption. Mineral Intake: Our bodies need essential minerals for various functions, such as nerve function, muscle contraction, and maintaining fluid balance. While we obtain most of our minerals from food, water can be a supplementary source. Drinking water with a good mineral profile can contribute to our daily intake of beneficial elements like calcium and magnesium. pH and Acidity: Pure H₂O is neutral (pH 7). However, distilled water is very absorbent and can readily pick up carbon dioxide from the air, which can slightly lower its pH, making it slightly acidic. While this effect is usually minor and temporary, some theories suggest that drinking water with a lower pH might be less beneficial or potentially leach minerals from the body over time, though scientific evidence for significant harm in healthy individuals is limited. Electrolyte Balance: When you sweat, you lose electrolytes (minerals). Drinking water with some electrolytes can help in rehydration and maintaining this balance more effectively than pure H₂O, especially after strenuous activity.

In essence, while distilled water is chemically pure, it lacks the sensory and, arguably, the subtle nutritional qualities that make natural mineralized water a more enjoyable and potentially beneficial beverage for regular hydration.

Can bottled water be considered the purest form of natural water?

Bottled water can be a source of very pure water, but it's not a single category. The purity of bottled water depends entirely on its source and processing. There are several types of bottled water:

Spring Water: Bottled from a natural spring. Its purity depends on the quality of that spring and the protection of its watershed. Mineral Water: Also sourced from a spring or aquifer, but it must contain a specific minimum amount of dissolved minerals and must be bottled at the source. The mineral content is what defines it. Purified Water: This can be sourced from tap water, groundwater, or even spring water that has undergone extensive purification processes like distillation, deionization, reverse osmosis, or ozonation. The goal here is to remove impurities, and it may have minerals added back for taste. Artesian Water: Water from a well tapping into a confined aquifer that is under pressure.

When brands label their water as "pure" or "pristine," they are often referring to water that has been highly filtered or sourced from a protected, remote location. Reverse osmosis or distillation processes used to create "purified water" can achieve a very high level of purity, similar to laboratory-grade distilled water, but often with minerals added back. Spring and mineral waters rely on their natural source for purity and mineral content.

However, it's important to be aware that not all bottled water is superior to tap water. Some bottled waters may have higher levels of contaminants or dissolved solids than your local tap water, depending on the regulations and standards in place. Furthermore, the environmental impact of plastic bottles is a significant concern. If seeking the purest *natural* form, you'd look for bottled spring or mineral water that explicitly states its source is pristine and minimally processed.

What are the health risks associated with drinking impure natural water?

Drinking impure natural water can pose significant health risks, ranging from mild gastrointestinal upset to severe, life-threatening illnesses. The risks depend on the types and levels of contaminants present:

Bacterial and Viral Contamination: Pathogens like E. coli, Salmonella, Giardia, Cryptosporidium, and norovirus can cause gastroenteritis (diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps), fever, and dehydration. In severe cases, these infections can lead to serious complications, particularly in vulnerable populations like children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Cholera and typhoid fever are more severe waterborne diseases that can be fatal. Parasitic Infections: Protozoa like Giardia and Cryptosporidium can cause prolonged diarrhea and malabsorption of nutrients. Helminths (worms) can also be transmitted through contaminated water, leading to a range of symptoms depending on the type of worm. Chemical Contamination: Heavy Metals (Lead, Mercury, Arsenic): Chronic exposure to heavy metals can lead to serious health problems affecting the nervous system, kidneys, liver, and reproductive system. Lead, in particular, can cause developmental problems in children, even at low exposure levels. Arsenic is a known carcinogen. Nitrates and Nitrites: High levels, often from agricultural runoff, can be dangerous for infants, leading to methemoglobinemia (blue baby syndrome), which reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen. Pesticides and Herbicides: Long-term exposure to certain agricultural chemicals has been linked to an increased risk of various cancers, neurological disorders, and reproductive issues. Industrial Pollutants: Various industrial chemicals can be toxic, carcinogenic, or disrupt hormone function. Algal Toxins: Some harmful algal blooms (HABs) produce toxins that can cause a range of symptoms, including skin irritation, respiratory problems, liver damage, and neurological effects if ingested. Sediment and Particulates: While not always directly harmful, high levels of suspended solids can make water unpalatable and may indicate the presence of other contaminants that were not effectively removed.

It is for these reasons that public water systems are rigorously monitored and treated, and why it is always recommended to purify water collected from natural sources, especially if its safety is uncertain.

The "Purest" Natural Water: A Journey of Appreciation

My exploration into the question, "Which is the purest form of natural water," has reinforced my belief that the answer is not a simple designation but rather a journey of understanding. It's about appreciating the natural processes that purify water and recognizing the subtle differences that make each source unique.

While scientifically distilled water reigns supreme in its lack of impurities, the natural world offers something more. Glacial meltwater, deep aquifer groundwater, and high-altitude springs represent water that has been cleansed by the earth itself, often imbued with beneficial minerals that enhance its taste and potential contributions to our health. These are the waters that evoke a sense of purity not just in their chemical composition but in their connection to the pristine landscapes from which they originate.

My personal experiences, from the simple joy of drinking from a mountain stream to the subtle flavors of high-quality bottled spring water, have taught me that purity in drinking water is a balance. It's the absence of harmful contaminants coupled with the presence of natural, beneficial minerals. It’s the taste that revitalizes, the feel that quenches deeply, and the confidence that you are consuming something truly wholesome.

For those seeking the purest form of natural water, the quest is often about finding that balance. It involves understanding the sources, the natural filtration processes, and the potential environmental impacts. It also means being realistic about access and safety. For most of us, ensuring the purity of our drinking water will involve a combination of relying on safe public supplies, using effective home filtration systems, and, for those with access, carefully collecting and treating water from natural sources.

Ultimately, the purest form of natural water is a concept that engages our senses, our intellect, and our respect for the environment. It's a reminder that the most fundamental element for life on Earth is also one of its most profound and delicate treasures. The pursuit of pure water is a testament to our innate desire for health, vitality, and a connection to the unadulterated beauty of our planet.