Weaving indigenous and western ecological knowledge to enhance environmental sustainability

Abstract

Weaving place-based indigenous and western ecological knowledge offers a pathway to address many environmental challenges. Anthropogenic impacts are driving degradation in ecological and environmental health in many estuaries throughout the world. This study worked with Ngāti Awa (Indigenous Māori tribe of Aotearoa New Zealand) elders and researchers to develop a hybrid of two modelling approaches (a species distribution model and bayesian network model) to weave together Indigenous and western based ecological knowledge. Research was centred in a placed based Indigenous led management initiative to reverse rapid declines in subtidal mussels (kuku, Perna canaliculus) within Ōhiwa Harbour (Aotearoa New Zealand). Outputs were tailored to assist informed decision-making for Ngāti Awa with the added intention that a similar approach could be built upon elsewhere to aid other coastal Māori tribes to tackle ecological degradation. Results identified optimal mussel restoration locations, aligning strongly with Indigenous knowledge of traditional mussel beds. Success of research outcomes was driven by place based Indigenous co-development and leadership, increasingly the likelihood that findings will be implemented by management to help restore mussel beds.