Indigenous and local knowledge systems

Indigenous people’s traditional knowledge and cultural heritage are increasingly recognised as vital components in the design and implementation of ecosystem solutions, where they can help improve environmental assessments and inform sustainable management practices. Local knowledge encompasses insights, perceptions, and intuitions about the local culture and the environment, drawing from centuries of collective experience. It's dynamic, complex that includes knowledge about processes, not just uses and products. Ironically, indigenous and local communities bear the brunt of climate change, suffering its most severe consequences despite having contributed least to its causes. 

Therefore, this tracking, learning, and sharing (TLS) learning journey has identified as its theme the nuanced challenges faced by indigenous people and local communities, and the efforts made by ARA community members to improve their circumstances. It is evident that indigenous and local communities are disproportionately impacted by climate change and urgent, tailor-made empowerment strategies are needed.