Bouwkunde brings indigenous knowledge to UN biodiversity summit
At the end of October, diplomats and scientists from all over the world came to Cali, Colombia for the 16th United Nations Biodiversity Conference of the Parties (COP16). Those who visited the Dutch pavilion between debates and lectures sometimes witnessed unexpected things. A dance conveying knowledge about the water system? A woven belt that says something about how to grow food in harmony with nature? The Landscape Architecture Section has a refreshing message: ‘Traditional and indigenous knowledge can be harnessed to landscape solutions for biodiversity and water.’
During COP16, diplomats from around the world negotiate regulations around biodiversity. In addition, experts stand in their national ‘pavilions’ to share information on the state of science. The Dutch pavilion was fully equipped by the Landscape Architecture Section represented by Professor Steffen Nijhuis, Nico Tillie and Rosa de Wolf. ‘We suggested to the Dutch government (RVO) the idea of researching landscape-based solutions for bio-cultural diversity. Say, designing with nature and local culture for solutions around water issues and ecology. They were enthusiastic and invited us to provide displays for the interior of the Dutch pavilion, as well as lectures and workshops,’ Steffen explains.
This year's Biodiversity Summit focused on practical solutions for conserving and enhancing biodiversity. The contribution of the Landscape Architecture Section focused on how we can harness indigenous knowledge and practice on water management, ecology and climate for contemporary design issues. Local residents pass on crucial knowledge about their habitat to the next generation through performative or material cartography such as dances or braided bands with coloured symbols. Thanks to the help of our local partner Fundación Herencia Ambiental Caribe, we were able to exchange knowledge with leaders of four indigenous groups from different ecological zones in Colombia.
‘We learned a lot from their knowledge and experience about how landscape can play a role in developing a pleasant and liveable environment for people, plants and animals. But also about alternative forms of knowledge transfer, complementary to western thinking,’ the team says. With great enthusiasm, Steffen shares an example of the power of indigenous knowledge. ‘Parts of the Cordoba region in Colombia are increasingly struggling with drought. Amid the withered fields a group of residents decided, with the help of landscape researchers, to employ traditional methods for water conservation and ecological agriculture. Their village and the surrounding area is an attractive, green oasis, with enough water and food for the whole community all year round! In dialogue with one of the tribal chiefs, for example, we were also able to share experiences on how to use traditional water management methods for groundwater recharge in the sandy areas of the Netherlands while strengthening local communities and biodiversity through landscape solutions.’
Another highlight was Steffen's public lecture on the importance of indigenous knowledge. The public part of COP16, with all kinds of stands and activities, received over 100,000 visitors. Steffen says: ‘I had no idea how much resonance the topic would have with the public, but afterwards it turned out that for many of the visitors it was a recognition of their commitment to preserve and use indigenous knowledge. Scientific recognition is important because many governments still view indigenous knowledge as inferior.’
To conclude their contribution to COP16, those involved at the Dutch pavilion took part in a water ritual, focusing on respect for nature and each other. It made a deep impression on the group. Steffen concludes, ‘Our experience at COP16 underlines the importance of landscape solutions, design thinking and the role that traditional and indigenous knowledge (transfer) can play in this. Through research, design and applications, we can contribute to a better and sustainable living environment for all. As a university, we have a responsibility to inspire future generations of designers and engineers and show that science, engineering and indigenous knowledge are mutually reinforcing.
