Australia 2b. Pre-Bilateral - Indigenous responses to climate change

Environment   Sep 10, 2017 by Rhys Simpson

https://ourworld.unu.edu/en/cop15-filmfestival

1. How is this representation of climate change similar to the other things you’ve read/viewed? How is different?

The video talks about the impacts of carbon dioxide and deforestation, which gives the messaged that they believe non-indigenous are the reason climate change exists. The Indigenous women lead the fight against climate change in Latin America (https://popularresistance.org/indigenous-women-lead-fight-against-climate-change-in-latin-america/) article seemingly has the same opinion as they claim their families and friends are becoming ‘climate refugees’ because they’re ‘giving up forests’ (deforestation). However, it isn’t known who they believe is the cause. The statement ‘giving up forests’ could be linked to REDD+.

2.Where do you see the influence of Indigenous peoples in this video? Where is it missing?

The point of view of this video is from indigenous people, as the entire video is narrated by an indigenous elder speaking to other indigenous groups. Also, their influence is shown by the 300million indigenous people who live in targeted areas of deforestation. FPIC (Free Prior and Informed Consent) allows indigenous people to give there input on climate issues.

3.What solutions to climate change does this video propose?

The video clearly states that they believe the governments in charge of reducing climate change (carbon emissions) are doing two things. Which is, making agreements with industrialised countries to decrease carbon emissions and reducing and possibly stopping deforestation. Also, this is part of a worldwide agreement called REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) which pays developing countries to not cut down their forests. The video also wants all of us to come together to ensure everyone’s voice is heard.

4. Do you agree with the representation of Indigenous peoples and climate change action in the video? Why or why not?

I felt the video gave a good representation on indigenous people and their perspective on climate change. It gave their opinion and was in the point of viewed of an Indigenous elder whilst also providing good strategies to reduce climate change.

5.What are the opportunities and challenges in taking seriously Indigenous perspectives of climate change? Consider factors that facilitate or hinder ethical responses to climate change, including social and economic inequities, political dynamics, marginalization, discrimination, state, military/police power, etc.

Making the government recognise Indigenous perspectives on climate change issues is a large challenge that can hopefully be helped by REDD+. This will lead to many opportunities to reduce climate change and keep Earth’s environments safe.

Group: Brendan, Maya, Erin, Rhys

Post comment