INDIGENOUS LIFESTYLE MAY BE THE ANSWER TO A MORE SUSTAINABLE SOCIETY

In a recent article in the National Geographic about Climate Change and Indigenous People,  Stephen Leahy shows how the Indigenous People's lifestyle may be the key to a more sustainable society as a whole. The article is based on interviews held with various participants who were invited for a 3-day workshop in Cairnes, Australia.


Until recently, Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), an international body which assesses climate change, did not include traditional knowledge of indigenous peoples. However, in order to change  societal behavior about CO2, this knowledge may be the missing link. This time the IPCC invited indigenous people to part-take in the conversation in the workshops. However, much to their dismay the workshops were set up in classroom style and limited by time. This method does not reflect the way that indigenous folk carry out meetings and discuss topics, nevertheless, the fact that the organization is now actively seeking participation shows their openness towards traditional methods and lifestyle.


Education may also be a way to start changing behavior in order to reduce CO2 emissions. As stated in the article, we are taught how to 'dominate nature' rather than learning how to live harmoniously with it. In addition, we rely on charts, statistical data and man-made techniques to tell us how we can further reduce carbon consumption, yet we do not look at the nature that is being destroyed around us to make sense of the impact we have on our environment.


Despite the fact that this 3-day workshop is a large step in the right direction for international and intergovernmental developments, the shift should actually be taking place in our own individual minds. Start by thinking: How can I reduce my carbon emissions? How can I stimulate others to do so? What is an interesting way to teach our children to get along with nature? Which lessons can I learn from indigenous people and how can we integrate this knowledge to make it accessible and attainable for all who wish to make a difference?