The recognition and inclusion of traditional knowledge and ways of knowing relating to climate change record keeping and natural resource knowledge banks was another significant theme identified by participants. Participants acknowledged that the ancestral, cultural and spiritual connections and linkages to the land are highly valued and command the same respect as scientific findings. Further, participants identified Elders were the keys to the past, that they hold great influence in historic natural resource ecosystems and act as time keepers within their communities.
Community-based cultural education and traditional learning programs were identified as an integral part to the protection of land and preservation of natural resources. Another related topic was the creation of a regional based traditional knowledge exchange that could bring together youth and Elders from neighbouring communities to live on the land, listen to the stories of the land and encourage youth to explore ways they can preserve and protect their traditional territories and prevent further harmful impacts brought on by climate change.
