The Restoration of Degraded Lands by Local Communities and Indigenous Peoples

Background

Land degradation is a global ecological crisis that threatens biodiversity, ecosystem integrity, and human well-being. Over 75% of land worldwide is affected, impacting the livelihoods of 3.2 billion people. Causes include deforestation, desertification, unsustainable agriculture, and climate change. In response, the United Nations launched the “Decade on Ecosystem Restoration” (2021–2030) to promote land restoration and achieve Land Degradation Neutrality. Indigenous peoples and local communities (IPLCs) manage a significant portion of intact ecosystems and possess deep ecological knowledge, making them vital actors in restoration efforts.

Goals and Methods

The article aims to explore how local and indigenous knowledge and practices can contribute to effective land restoration. The authors highlight various restoration strategies—such as reforestation, reseeding, wetland restoration, and sustainable soil management—and emphasize that success often depends on site-specific knowledge and long-term commitment. Case studies demonstrating IPLC engagement in ecosystem restoration include forest regeneration experiences in Thailand and Peru to watershed management in Finland and the Niger Delta. The article also evaluates policies and collaborative frameworks—such as the Akwe Kon Guidelines and Whakatane Mechanism—that integrate IPLCs into governance and restoration.

Conclusions and Takeaways

Effective land restoration is contingent on incorporating the political, cultural, and economic aspirations of local communities. The document highlights that restoration projects must move beyond seeing local communities merely as labor sources but instead as integral partners whose knowledge and needs shape successful and sustainable outcomes. Practical restoration frameworks should blend scientific approaches with indigenous knowledge, ensuring long-term engagement and resourcefulness. This multifaceted approach can help balance conservation goals with community livelihoods, fortify collaborative governance, and ultimately achieve sustainable restoration practices .