In our quest to preserve the dwindling forests that serve as Earth's lungs, the most valuable lessons come from those who have lived in harmony with nature for centuries.
Shakaim Vargas, co-founder of the GEO Indigenous Alliance and Indigenous leader from the Shuar Nation in the Ecuadorian Amazon, embodies this synergy between innovation and tradition. He emphasizes the profound connection between Indigenous Peoples and their surrounding environment. "The Shuar world considers nature as part of it and she is part of the Shuar," Mr. Vargas elucidates. "We have the highest degree of respect for our jungle." He further articulates this symbiotic relationship between Indigenous knowledge and forest conservation eloquently:
“According to Shuar mythology, Arutam, the spirit of the forest, manifests as Shakaim—a hardworking figure who organizes the rainforest ecosystem. In the Shuar worldview, Shakaim symbolizes the era of rational, sustainable forest management. He teaches the Shuar people how to utilize the jungle's resources wisely, categorizing plants into timber, medicinal, poisonous, fruit-bearing, and ornamental species. "
The myth of Shakaim reflects the Shuar's deep understanding of their environment, honed through generations of observation and interaction with the natural world. This wisdom goes beyond mere knowledge; it encompasses a holistic approach to ecosystem management that respects the interconnectedness of all living beings.
Yet, formidable challenges persist, with deforestation rates escalating, climate change and forest fires ravaging millions of hectares annually, making the urgency for action paramount. In response, Indigenous communities like the Shuar are leveraging innovative tools such as Earth observation technology to better protect their territories from climate change and exploitation.
As Technical Coordinator, Mr. Vargas leads the 'Strengthening for the territorial management of the Federation of Shuar Nationality of Pastaza - FENASH-P' project. This initiative involves various Shuar communities and aims to precisely define community boundaries, open trails, and undertake reforestation efforts as part of the territorial management process.
This Indigenous project engages Shuar communities, including Kajekai, San Alfonso, Shakap, Chapints, Shauk of the association Pupunas, Kumai, Ankuash, Kuakash, Panki, Nanki, and San José of the association Tarimiat, and Uunt Paastas.Photo courtesy of Mario Vargas Shakaim
It seeks to organize the territory between communities, fostering respect among inhabitants and ensuring the adequate management of natural resources under a zoning system for various uses. Cutting-edge topographic equipment, including RTK, GPS, drones, cameras, cellphones, and radios, are utilized, with trained technicians from the Shuar organizations themselves leading the efforts.
Photo courtesy of Mario Vargas Shakaim
In the face of limited institutional support, the resilience of Indigenous communities relies on grassroots initiatives and community-driven efforts to sustainably manage forests. Now, more than ever, we need collective action. Organizations, governments, and individuals must come together in a unified effort to protect and preserve our forests.
Here are three actionable steps that civil society or individuals can take:
Support Indigenous-Led Initiatives: Provide financial and logistical support to Indigenous-led initiatives focused on forest conservation and sustainable land management. By amplifying Indigenous voices and leadership, we can harness their invaluable knowledge and expertise in safeguarding our forests.
Advocate for Indigenous Land Rights and Tenure Security: Work with governments and international bodies to ensure that Indigenous communities have legal ownership and control over their ancestral lands. Secure land rights, enable Indigenous Peoples to actively participate in decision-making processes concerning forest management and conservation, leading to more effective and sustainable outcomes.
Uphold the principles of FPIC and the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP): in all development projects impacting Indigenous lands and resources. Respect Indigenous self-determination and decision-making rights by engaging in meaningful consultations before undertaking any activities affecting their territories.