Reflections on the future of European ethnobiology

Area of Science:

• Ethnobiology
• Ethnobotany
• Environmental Social Science

Background:

• Ethnobiology is evolving with a new research framework prioritizing an ethics of care.
• This paradigm shift is led by Indigenous scholars and researchers from the Global South.
• European ethnobiologists are prompted to engage with these evolving global approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the future of European ethnobiology.
• To reflect on the specificities of a European lens within global ethnobiology.
• To outline key avenues for future development in European ethnobiology.

Main Methods:

• Reflective analysis of the European context within global ethnobiology.
• Identification of five key avenues for future development based on the ethics of care paradigm.
• Highlighting current examples of European ethnobiologists advancing these directions.

Main Results:

• European ethnobiology can participate more meaningfully in transdisciplinary and intercultural dialogues.
• Five avenues for development include deepening ethics of care, responding to challenges, expanding contexts, reimagining methods, and enhancing societal relevance.
• The field is dynamically evolving, with current examples demonstrating progress.

Conclusions:

• European ethnobiology must critically engage with global shifts towards an ethics of care.
• Future development requires addressing contemporary challenges and enhancing societal impact.
• Navigating digital technologies and institutional barriers is crucial for co-creating knowledge across diverse worldviews.