“ethno” - culture | “ecology” - living systems
What is ethnoecology?
Ethnoecology studies the intricate relationship between cultures and their environments. It delves into how various societies perceive, interact with, and manage their surroundings, integrating diverse knowledge and practices with ecological understanding.
This interdisciplinary field explores how local knowledge shapes conservation, resource management, and sustainability, offering insights into the dynamic interplay between human societies and their ecosystems
What does it do?
Ethnoecology practically involves collaborating with local communities to document, understand, and apply their ecological knowledge. It engages in fieldwork to assess regional practices and their ecological impact, contributing to conservation strategies, sustainable resource management, and fostering culture-based approaches to environmental challenges.
Specifically, it explores how recognising and exploring cultural assumptions about the natural world, whilst Integrating local knowledge, helps to identify coherent, practical solutions that align with community needs and environmental preservation.
How does it help?
Ethnoecology offers invaluable insights for local conservation by preserving biodiversity through local knowledge. It aids in adapting to climate change by leveraging traditional approaches that enhance local resilience through regenerative practice.
Additionally, it fosters place-specific approaches, promoting public health through culturally aligned strategies, such as community-based land care and crafts, or sustainable lifestyle approaches methods that nurture community and ecosystem well-being.
How can I get invovled?
Join us as a member, and you will be given access to webinars, projects and events.
The online courses introduce you to the main themes and applications of integrating ethnoecology into a practice.
You may also be interested in working with us to conduct research, workshops, training or consultancy.
A research-based organisation specialising in understanding culture and its relationship to sustainable futures.
© 2024 Centre for Ethnoecology CIC is a non-profit community interest company. Company No. 12365677. Registered in England and Wales. All Rights Reserved. Do not reproduce without expressed written permission.