Traditional Ecological Knowledge: An Approach for the Climate Justice through Indigenous Lenses
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Abstract
Climate change disproportionately impacts Indigenous Peoples, who, despite historical marginalization, possess vital Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) crucial for developing effective climate solutions. This paper critically examines how the systematic integration, recognition, and protection of Indigenous Peoples' TEK can foster climate justice while promoting more effective, equitable, and resilient climate change governance and action. Employing a documentary analysis with a systematic approach to literature retrieval and discourse analysis of selected texts, the study investigates how addressing Indigenous marginalization and integrating their knowledge can lead to more robust climate action. Key findings projected herein demonstrate that TEK offers invaluable long-term ecological data, sophisticated local insights into resource management, and proven adaptive strategies. These can synergistically complement Western scientific knowledge, leading to more holistic, resilient, and contextually appropriate climate solutions. The research underscores that a rights-based approach, emphasizing free, prior, and informed consent, and genuine participation, significantly enhances adaptive capacity, sustainability, and justice outcomes. Ultimately, fostering genuine partnerships is paramount for effective, ethically sound, and locally resonant climate actions, contributing to a truly sustainable future.