Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Environmental Crimonology

 From what I’ve learned in class, Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) are deeply rooted in holistic wisdom—they view nature, humans, animals, and spirits as all connected. This means harming one part of nature affects the whole system. Unlike modern systems that often separate people from nature, Indigenous knowledge is based on balance, respect, and sustainability.

Indigenous people have deep spiritual and cultural ties to the land. For them, the land is not something to own or exploit, but a living relative. So when forests are cut or rivers polluted, it’s not just environmental harm—it’s a moral and cultural loss.

Yet, these communities are often the most at risk. They face land theft, pollution, and exclusion from decisions about their own environment. Environmental criminology helps us see this as not just ecological damage, but a justice issue—asking who is harming, who suffers, and why.

We also learned that Indigenous peoples are guardians of biodiversity. Their traditional ways—like rotational farming, protecting sacred forests, or seasonal hunting—are sustainable and help preserve ecosystems. Their wisdom offers real solutions to climate change, but only if their rights and knowledge are respected.

In short, Indigenous knowledge isn’t just the past—it’s part of the solution for our planet’s future. Respecting their wisdom means protecting both people and the Earth