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Weaving indigenous and western ecological knowledge to enhance environmental sustainability

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Fabrice StephensonORCiD

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0).


Abstract

© 2024 The Authors Weaving place-based indigenous and western ecological knowledge offers a pathway to address many environmental challenges. Anthropogenic impacts are driving degradation in ecological and environmental health in many estuaries throughout the world. This study worked with Ngāti Awa (Indigenous Māori tribe of Aotearoa New Zealand) elders and researchers to develop a hybrid of two modelling approaches (a species distribution model and bayesian network model) to weave together Indigenous and western based ecological knowledge. Research was centred in a placed based Indigenous led management initiative to reverse rapid declines in subtidal mussels (kuku, Perna canaliculus) within Ōhiwa Harbour (Aotearoa New Zealand). Outputs were tailored to assist informed decision-making for Ngāti Awa with the added intention that a similar approach could be built upon elsewhere to aid other coastal Māori tribes to tackle ecological degradation. Results identified optimal mussel restoration locations, aligning strongly with Indigenous knowledge of traditional mussel beds. Success of research outcomes was driven by place based Indigenous co-development and leadership, increasingly the likelihood that findings will be implemented by management to help restore mussel beds.


Publication metadata

Author(s): Bulmer R, Paul-Burke K, Ranapia M, Ellis J, Bluett C, O'Brien T, Burke J, Petersen G, Stephenson F

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: Ocean & Coastal Management

Year: 2024

Volume: 258

Print publication date: 01/11/2024

Online publication date: 07/10/2024

Acceptance date: 24/09/2024

Date deposited: 22/10/2024

ISSN (print): 0964-5691

ISSN (electronic): 1873-524X

Publisher: Elsevier Ltd

URL: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ocecoaman.2024.107402

DOI: 10.1016/j.ocecoaman.2024.107402

Data Access Statement: Data will be made available on request.


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Funding

Funder referenceFunder name
Sustainable Seas

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