Nature-based solutions to climate change are more likely to succeed when Indigenous Peoples are involved

A mosaic of boreal wetlands within the southern region of the Akaitcho Territory, Northwest Territories, Canada. Photo credit: Ducks Unlimited Canada.

Nature-based solutions (NbS) to climate change could enable 30–40% of the reduction in carbon dioxide emissions required to keep warming capped below 2°C by 2030. These solutions include planting forests and protecting carbon-rich ecosystems. Findings from a 2019 Canadian workshop that convened Indigenous leaders with environmental organizations and researchers support the literature indicating that NbS are more likely to succeed when Indigenous Peoples are involved.

This is of particular relevance in Canada which has extensive carbon sinks and is home to over 630 distinct First Nations communities, as well as Métis and Inuit. High carbon density ecosystems that are prioritized for NbS globally are often found within the traditional territories of Indigenous Peoples across the country, such as Canada’s expansive Boreal Forest biome. Many Indigenous governments in Canada would like to advance culturally appropriate NbS in their territories to create positive ecological and economic outcomes.

Read this open access paper on the FACETS website.

Participants in the workshop expressed keen interest in Indigenous-led NbS in Canada, but identified a number of obstacles to overcome. The most significant barriers are related to establishment (e.g. lack of clarity about markets, lack of investment capital, criteria for carbon credits) and governance (e.g. carbon rights, volatility in climate change policy).

The recent work of the Indigenous Circle of Experts in Canada offers an example of how Crown and Indigenous governments could work together to meet climate targets while advancing NbS. Successful development of NbS policy and practice must recognize and uphold Indigenous rights, incorporate Indigenous knowledge, invest in Indigenous-led NbS, and support Indigenous leadership.

Read the paper — Indigenous Peoples are critical to the success of nature-based solutions to climate change by Justine Townsend, Faisal Moola, and Mary-Kate Craig.