AI-Centered Conservation Efforts and Indigenous Leadership
In recent discussions at the 30th United Nations Conference of the Parties (COP30) in Brazil, the essential role of Indigenous leaders and communities in global climate and conservation movements was highlighted. This gathering included over 50,000 attendees, including world leaders, diplomats, scholars, and activists.
The Potential of AI in Environmental Data Science
Discussions at COP30 emphasized that Artificial Intelligence (AI) has significant potential to enhance environmental data science. It could address critical issues such as:
- Rising pollution
- Drastic biodiversity loss
- Worsening natural disasters
However, experts and Indigenous communities raised concerns regarding AI ethics, privacy issues, and the environmental impacts of these technologies. This prompts an important question: How can we ensure that emerging technologies, including AI, truly benefit the planet and those who protect it?
Understanding Indigenous Digital Sovereignty
One key to achieving this goal may lie in upholding Indigenous digital sovereignty, which is the right of Indigenous nations to govern the collection, ownership, and application of their own data. Recognizing Indigenous ways of knowing is crucial for effective problem-solving in environmental and climate fields.
This means that Indigenous ownership and management of data should guide technological advancements, including AI development. The incorporation of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) is essential, as it allows scientific understanding to progress in more just and effective ways.
Challenges and Opportunities
While Western science is beginning to acknowledge the value of TEK, challenges persist. Successful examples include:
- Sea ice modeling and forecasting services led by Alaska Natives
- A Tribal Data Repository created by Indigenous academics and tribes
As AI becomes increasingly ubiquitous, it is imperative that Western science collaborates with Indigenous experts to develop ethical AI tools for conservation, aligning these technologies with community goals.
The Importance of Collaboration
Collaboration is fundamental, and building trust takes time. This relationship-building process cannot be rushed. Powerful examples illustrate the success of Indigenous-led initiatives in environmental monitoring and management. Furthermore, the irony of COP30 was evident, as reports indicated significant attendance by fossil fuel companies and lobbyists while Indigenous participants faced systematic exclusion.
Barriers such as travel and lodging costs hindered access for many Indigenous delegates, who are often the most knowledgeable about adaptation and mitigation solutions despite being the least responsible for climate change.
Valuing Indigenous Knowledge
At COP30, many asserted that Indigenous leadership is critical for the environmental movement. However, non-Indigenous leaders must translate this philosophy into practical action by valuing and investing in Indigenous partnerships and knowledge. Achieving the ambitious goals of the Paris Agreement requires humility, respect, and inclusion of diverse ways of knowing.
Ultimately, Indigenous ecological knowledge, which has sustained the planet for millennia, must guide our relationship with systems like AI, shaping a positive collective future.
