Embracing Indigenous and Local Knowledge: A Paradigm Shift in Conservation Science for Advancing the implementation of the GBF

The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) calls for collective efforts through whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach to address the pressing challenge of biodiversity loss and achieve GBF biodiversity targets. It further stressed that the implementation of the framework should be based on scientific evidence and traditional knowledge and practices while recognizing Indigenous Peoples and local communities as biodiversity custodians and key rightsholders and knowledge holders in biodiversity conservation and restoration.

However, indigenous and local knowledge and practices have often been sidelined or undervalued within conservation science and mainstream policies. To achieve the GBF targets, a paradigm shift is needed in conservation science and practice, necessitating the genuine inclusion of Indigenous and local knowledge systems through collaborative partnerships and mutual respect based on equity, human-rights based approach, and the multiple evidence base approach.

This side event seeks to initiate a constructive dialogue among diverse knowledge holders to challenge existing norms and biases within conservation science and policies, while exploring avenues and strategies for recognizing and embracing diverse knowledge systems. The side event additionally aligns with this year’s theme of International Day for Biodiversity, “Be part of the Plan”, which emphasizes the necessity for cooperation and partnership among diverse stakeholders and knowledge holders to implement The Biodiversity Plan.