Environmental Science

Indigenous peoples have a deep and spiritual relationship with the Earth and all living things. For hundreds and even thousands of years, Indigenous peoples have depended directly on the land and water to meet physical, cultural, spiritual and economic needs. At the same time, many Indigenous peoples feel a responsibility to care for the Earth and all living things.

Through this deep relationship with the Earth, Indigenous peoples have developed sophisticated and holistic knowledge about the natural world. This knowledge - often called traditional ecological knowledge -(TEK) - guides Indigenous peoples in their innumerable interactions with the natural environment, e.g.

• Food production (agriculture, hunting, fishing, gathering...)
• Struggles against disease and injury;
• Naming and explanation of natural phenomena;
• Strategies to cope with fluctuating environments.