Climate Change-Related Natural Hazards and Risk Communication: Incorporating Traditional Indigenous Knowledge

Abstract

This chapter explores the incorporation of traditional Indigenous knowledge into climate change-related natural hazard risk communication. Ample research has been conducted on climate change-related risk communication, and a significant body of literature exists on the role of traditional Indigenous knowledge in reducing climate change impacts. However, even in the face of mounting climate change-related risks, little effort has been made to incorporate traditional Indigenous knowledge into climate change-related natural hazard risk communication. Scientific knowledge and traditional Indigenous knowledge pertain to different knowledge systems; however, in terms of methods and content, many aspects exist where both systems converge or follow similar patterns. Rather than focusing on points of divergence, researchers, policymakers, and decision-makers, and risk-communication experts should focus on common features of both systems. Points of convergence may provide common ground for knowledge integration and co-production, enabling Indigenous and scientific understandings of climate change to be reconciled. This may help improve risk communication processes between disaster risk management practitioners, agencies, and Indigenous Peoples. However, it is also important to recognize that traditional Indigenous knowledge may not fit with every scientific model; therefore, a more in-depth research is needed to learn which forms of traditional Indigenous knowledge can help scientific researchers improve climate change-related natural hazard risk communication processes.