Braiding Knowledge Systems: Integrating Indigenous Wisdom and Sustainable Research for a Regenerative Future

Area of Science:

• Sustainability Science
• Environmental Studies
• Social Sciences

Background:

• Urgent environmental, social, and economic challenges require innovative solutions.
• Western-centric and reductionist approaches have limitations in addressing complex global issues.
• Indigenous knowledge systems offer alternative frameworks for understanding and interacting with the natural world.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore and advocate for the integration of Indigenous knowledge systems within sustainability science.
• To examine how Indigenous worldviews can enrich sustainability research and practice.
• To propose a paradigm shift towards holistic, interconnected, and intentional frameworks.

Main Methods:

• Collaborative workshop with Indigenous knowledge holders, practitioners, scholars, and community leaders.
• Mapping parallels and distinctions between Indigenous and Western sustainability practices.
• Exploration of concepts such as systems thinking, circularity, and Two-Eyed Seeing.

Main Results:

• Indigenous knowledge systems provide valuable insights into place-based knowledge, stewardship, and human-land relationships.
• Concepts like ceremonial practices, seven-generational thinking, and relational accountability offer practical applications for sustainability.
• A need for a paradigm shift away from reductionist, growth-focused models towards inclusive, holistic approaches is identified.

Conclusions:

• Integrating Indigenous knowledge is crucial for addressing global challenges and restoring balance between humanity and the natural world.
• Sustainability researchers are urged to adopt regenerative and relational approaches, fostering long-term collaborations.
• This integration promotes reconciliation, strengthens intercultural relationships, and supports well-being for all, contributing to planetary health.