Indigenous And Traditional Ecological Knowledge

 Indigenous communities have a vast amount of knowledge about their local environments, built up over many generations. This knowledge, called Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK), is unique to each place and is passed down through stories, songs, and rituals. It shows how everything in nature is connected and emphasizes taking care of the environment. TEK is about using resources wisely, protecting nature, and making sure ecosystems stay healthy for the future.

TRADITIONAL ECOLOGICAL KNOWLWDGE (Example)

1.Forests, mountains, lakes, and rivers are often considered sacred in Bhutanese culture. People believe spirits or deities live in these places, so they avoid harming them, which helps conserve biodiversity.

2.Bhutanese farmers use organic and sustainable techniques, such as crop rotation, composting, and using animal manure as fertilizer. Slash-and-burn (tsheri) farming was once common but is now regulated to prevent deforestation.

3.Traditional healers (known as Menpa) use local medicinal plants for healing. Knowledge of these herbs has been passed down through generations.

Examples discussed in classroom

1.Time and stone

2.Timing of harvest

3. Appearing deity before construction

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