Gaia is “a complex entity involving the Earth’s biosphere, atmosphere, oceans and soil… the totality constituting a feedback or cybernetic system which seeks an optimal physical and chemical environment for life on this planet” [Lovelock’s definition].

“organisms interact with their inorganic surroundings on Earth to form a self-regulating, complex system that contributes to maintaining the conditions for life on the planet”.

Gaia was the Greek goddess of the earth, mother of all living things.