The integration of indigenous knowledge and social science into conservation is essential for addressing 21st century challenges for conservation and the sustainable management of natural resources. This integration requires, in many cases, organizational transformation for effective conservation science, policy, and practice, and this begins with better understanding of recipes for success and lessons learned by early adopters. While research has discussed barriers to integration and disconnects between social and natural scientists, as well as between scientists and knowledge producers, it has rarely addressed how to support individuals in pioneering positions to overcome challenges, particularly with regard to integrating indigenous peoples and local communities and their traditional knowledge. Connections between scientists, practitioners and community members are essential, as different types of knowledge can learn from each other. We are exploring building a community of practice and sharing insights learned in this session as a starting point. Community members can benefit from understanding how their knowledge can inform research and conservation action and their voice and participation in this conversation is invaluable.
We propose a knowledge cafe with a brief introduction and short presentation. Participants will then break out into small groups discussing a question related to the topics below. At the end of the allotted time, each member of the group moves to a different new table. A table host will stay with each table, take notes, and keep the table on track. When time is up, they will report out to the larger group - and allow some time for reactions and reflection with all participants. We will close the session with a short synthesis and wrap-up by the organizers.
Topics for small group discussion will include:
- Experiences integrating indigenous and local knowledge and social sciences into conservation science, organizations and projects,
- What happens after research or projects are designed and undertaken; who owns or gets to use data? How are results shared? How to deal with data repatriation?
- Sharing success stories: what projects or organizations are already integrating indigenous knowledge and social sciences into conservation and what can we learn from them?
Insights from this session will inform a planned journal article to be submitted to the journal Conservation Biology. All are invited to this session, but we particularly encourage pioneers and organizations considering starting social science programs, as well as community members and holders of traditional and indigenous knowledge, to join us.
Big Issues: Education , Big Issues: Indigenous peoples , Solutions: Local/Traditional knowledge
