Natural Wisdom: Indigenous communities and defending biodiversity
earthrise meets two indigenous communities in Brazil and Australia protecting unique ecosystems in their territories.
Being in tune with nature used to be instinctive for all humans. It was a matter of survival. But over the centuries, as we urbanised and industrialised, the connection has become weaker.
But Indigenous communities around the world have not forgotten what it means to live in harmony with Earth. They make up around 5 percent of the world’s population and yet safeguard 80 percent of the planet’s biodiversity. The natural wealth they defend makes them vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.
We meet two communities protecting unique ecosystems on their territory. In Brazil, the Xavantes are exploring new ways of defending their ancestral way of life. And in Australia, the Bardi Jawi are working with scientists to create a fresh approach to marine conservation.
Through reports from Cadenza Films in Brazil and Wildside Pictures in Australia, together with interviews with activists Daiara Tukano, Xiye Bastida and Nemonte Nenquimo, this programme highlights the crucial role Indigenous peoples play in protecting our planet and the importance of living in reciprocity with Mother Nature.
Archive of Nemonte Nenquimo provided by Amazon Frontlines.