The UN’s International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples takes place annually on August 9 and presents the opportunity to raise awareness of the cultural significance of indigenous peoples around the world.

Climate change is affecting communities around the world and in many places Indigenous communities are leading the way in developing innovative and creative ways to adapt to changing environmental conditions.

Living with the environment since time immemorial, Indigenous peoples frequently already use sustainable and collaborative solutions in their day-to-day activities. Their deeply rooted cultural traditions, local and Traditional Knowledges, and strong social networks all help them to develop climate adaptation actions and respond to the changing conditions in culturally appropriate, supporting, and efficient ways. The knowledges and expertise of Indigenous peoples can be valuable in informing how our societies deal with changing conditions, enhance sustainability, and build resilience.

In the spirit of amplifying Indigenous voices, Frontiers in Sustainability is launching a new article collection inspired by this important UN day. This occasion not only offers an opportunity to reflect on the community resilience and sustainable practices of indigenous peoples, but also to consider the importance of involving them in policymaking discussions. Themes may include, but are by no means limited to:

  1. How Tribal Sovereignty and self-determination influence approaches to sustainability;
  2. Indigenous leadership and indigenizing of climate adaptation strategies for community resilience;
  3. Indigenous and Tribal approaches to climate change resilience;
  4. Food, energy, and data sovereignty in a changing climate;
  5. Federal Policies and Energy Development on Tribal Lands; and,
  6. Protection-in-Place & Community-Led Relocation.

The deadline to submit abstracts is November 9, and the deadline to submit manuscripts is February 29, 2024.