The Omiwatari Religious Ritual: An Example of Climate Change-Driven Loss of Intangible Cultural Heritage

Abstract

Climate change impacts can lead to irreversible losses for which there is no possible substitute, such as the loss of homelands, unique landscapes, or biological species. What constitutes loss, why, and for whom may vary substantially depending on the specific loss concerned. Such variation has practical and ethical implications for the design of responses to loss. This article reports on one such incommensurable losses, namely Omiwatari, an ancient Shinto ritual that is at risk from climate change impacts. This case illustrates the practical and ethical implications referred to above and underscores how ill-prepared society is to manage this type of losses, which are expected to become more widespread. Preparing for these losses involves both assessing impending losses and empowering communities to frame responses to loss. The article concludes with a reflection on two knowledge gaps, namely the notions of human-value trade-offs and value-triggered behaviour. In sum, the case raises awareness about a consequence of climate change that currently escapes decision-making metrics, illustrates the difficulties associated with managing it, and provides pointers on how to do so.