Climate Change and Lessons from World Indigenous Minority Communities

Abstract

Climate change is a global threat, which is likely to have dire consequences on indigenous minority rural communities. This chapter takes a global exploration of climate change and variability in relation to the vulnerability context of indigenous minority rural communities. It identifies manifestations of climate change in various parts of the world and how vulnerable indigenous communities endeavour to cope with the changes. Secondary data sources from scientific research publications both in print and online are used. The chapter defines indigenous knowledge and explains its intricate relationship with minority indigenous communities in the context of climate change. The importance of documentation of traditional knowledge is discussed because these communities are dependent on their traditional knowledge for immediate solutions to local problems, including constraints caused by climate change. Roles of governments and non-governmental organisations in helping communities cope with climate change in various countries are discussed with a view to learn experiences from other regions of the world. The chapter also discusses the importance of community participation in climate change adaptation, minority sensitive management practices and national awareness and capacity in climate change–related issues.