On 13 August 2024 (from 12:00PM-2:00PM AEST) , WLI hosted an online event for Australia Awards scholars and alumni from the Pacific and climate and development colleagues exploring the role of traditional and local knowledge in climate resilience.
Although significant research has been conducted on the impacts of climate change in the Pacific, there is growing recognition of traditional and local knowledge as essential tools for climate change adaptation.
Recent studies also emphasise how the unique belief systems and perspectives embedded in traditional and local knowledge shape understandings of climate change, its dangers, and motivation to adapt.
Bringing together Pacific leaders to share their insights into this topic, the event featured a panel discussion, live audience Q&A, and group break-out discussions.
View or download the event recording.
Download the event Summary Paper or find it on the 'Resources' page under 'Summary Papers'.
Facilitated by Alice Tamang, Managing Director of Connecting Cultures International, the panel discussion will include:
Dr Katerina Teaiwa - Professor of Pacific Studies, School of Culture, History and Language, College of Asia and the Pacific, and Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy at the Australian National University.
Ms Moirah Matou - Project Manager, Vanuatu Klaemet Infomesen blong Redi, Adaot mo Protekt (Van-KIRAP) Project, Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards Department.
Reverend Dr Tafue Lusama - Director, Institute of Climate Indigenous Knowledge, Pacific Theological College.
In this online WLI Learning & Networking event, panellists explored the contribution of traditional and local knowledge to strengthening climate resilience in the Pacific.
It is hoped that by highlighting this critical topic, panellists and attendees gained deeper insight into the linkages among local and traditional knowledge, climate change, and community resilience in the Pacific.
