A new report from Conservation International highlights how traditional Indigenous knowledge and land stewardship practices contribute to carbon storage, biodiversity, and climate resilience. The study draws on interviews with 49 leaders across six continents and finds that cultural protocols directly support environmental protection. It also notes that all surveyed communities face growing climate impacts and external pressures.
Researchers found that 96 percent of the 43 communities surveyed maintain land set aside for spiritual or special uses, which helps preserve ecosystems. Practices such as avoiding overfishing, monitoring for fires, and restricting certain activities like clearing trees along rivers or hunting specific animals have sustained forests and wildlife for generations.
Sushma Shrestha, the study's lead author and an Indigenous Newar from Nepal, said all humanity relies on Indigenous contributions to carbon storage and biodiversity. Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim, an Indigenous Mbororo from Chad, called for urgent recognition of Indigenous rights and lands to protect this knowledge.
The report shows that more than half of communities are affected by mining, logging, and commercial agriculture. Indigenous leaders are seeking funding, legal support, and stronger land rights enforcement to continue their stewardship amid drought and extreme weather.