Making Space for Indigenous Knowledge: A Knowledge Synthesis on Weaving Indigenous Knowledge and Geospatial Technology for Sustainable Environmental Monitoring

Abstract

  Climate concerns, biodiversity changes, and human disruptions are increasing the need for collaborations between Indigenous Peoples and the geospatial sector. However, troublesome histories of exploitation of Indigenous Knowledge and resources and the designation of Indigenous Knowledge as inferior to Western science have created mistrust between stakeholders and some reluctance to collaboration. Although research and collaborations may benefit Indigenous communities and the environment, lack of capacity building does little for sustaining the environment and traditional livelihoods.   Weaving Indigenous Knowledge and geospatial science can help support shared environmental monitoring goals of Indigenous communities and scientists; however, achieving this requires the inclusion of local perspectives at all stages of the research process, as well as respect for local values, rights, and concerns.     This research therefore attempts to synthesize case studies that illustrate successful collaborations with Indigenous Peoples and to provide an overview of best practices Andøya Space Education can use in pursuing partnerships with Indigenous communities. The researcher will synthesize available literature related to environmental monitoring to answer the following research questions:    

• How can previous research on knowledge sharing strategies inform Andøya Space Education and Indigenous collaboration? What best practices might be drawn from this research?  
• What risks or considerations should Andøya Space Education consider in seeking collaborations with Indigenous Peoples?