Indigenous communities and their dependence on nature
Indigenous communities depend solely on the natural resources found near or around where they live to build shelters that can withstand the ever-changing weather patterns and seasons — that is, dry or wet, cold or hot — and for food. Their food is locally grown, hunted in forests or caught in rivers or the sea. Some Indigenous communities are nomadic. They move from place to place according to the weather conditions to obtain and grow their own food. They practise simple farming and fishing methods and use home-made tools and techniques, rather than relying on heavy machinery. Therefore, they do not disrupt nature or deplete the natural resources they depend on.
Traditional Indigenous farming and fishing knowledge and practices are passed down through the generations. Through keen observation of their surroundings — for example, learning how plants survive to produce seeds, flowers bloom and fruits ripen — Indigenous communities developed a strong bond with nature. They build their lives around conserving nature because everything they need to live originates from it.
The knowledge passed down from their forefathers equips the community with a deep understanding of soil and water conservation and respect for living things. Indigenous communities adapt to local environmental conditions and live in harmony with nature.
Image source: Indigenous Peoples Human Rights Defenders–IPHRDs Network, Asia. (2018, 26 March). We, Papora indigenous peoples are on the frontline of nature conservation. Preserving the balance of the ecosystem has always been [Image attached]. Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/iphrdnet/photos/a.767868239930227.1073741828.765337060183345/1803137569736617/?type=3&theater=&epik=dj0yJnU9MFZXamhOSHpCMmIyWEZCTGJFallMX2MzdmYzTFdGRlImcD0wJm49LTZRdklTX2JIVjR1clZtT1JSYVZ6QSZ0PUFBQUFBR1ZQVGRj
Licence: Facebook: Open access.
Reflection
Think about the following two questions. Make notes about your thoughts in your personal journal.
- Why do Indigenous communities respect and value nature?
- Think about the natural resources — for example, plants, including crops and vegetables that are grown, fruit trees, animals reared for milk, eggs and meat, types of soil found on the land and water in ponds or rivers — in the area where you live. Which ones can you conserve to ensure villagers have enough to meet their needs?
