Project Peoples
Heartbeat of Hope
Empowering Indigenous Climate Solutions
Project Peoples is a groundbreaking initiative that researches, communicates, and empowers the implementation of Indigenous solutions to address the global climate crisis. Rooted in the wisdom and practices of Indigenous communities around the world, our work seeks to bridge the gap between local ways of knowing and modern scientific approaches.
Through deep collaboration and knowledge sharing, we are co-creating innovative, culturally-relevant climate solutions that honor the inherent rights and leadership of Indigenous Peoples. From restoring degraded ecosystems to developing renewable energy systems, our work spans a range of critical focus areas.
Our Events
Our Supporter Circle gatherings celebrate the achievements of Indigenous Solutionists, join us as we stoke the fires of this powerful work. Connect with the team stewarding Project Peoples and be uplifted by real solutions to the climate crisis.
Join us for our gatherings to celebrate Project People’s accomplishments and catalyze next steps.
Our Mission and Vision
By weaving together Western and Indigenous science, we aim to heal our communities and activate a global movement for Earth stewardship. Our goal is to create an impactful repository of Indigenous technologies and practices that can be embraced and implemented by the international community.
Elevate Indigenous
Wisdom
We recognize and amplify the invaluable knowledge of Indigenous communities in addressing climate challenges. By centering their perspectives and lived experiences, we honor the generations of environmental stewardship that have sustained our planet.
Foster
Collaboration
By bridging Western and Indigenous science, we create powerful synergies for innovative climate solutions. This cross-pollination of knowledge systems allows us to develop holistic, community-driven approaches to the climate crisis.
Implement
Global Change
Our repository of knowledge aims to inspire and guide international climate action efforts. By sharing these time-tested solutions, we aim to empower communities worldwide to take tangible steps towards a more regenerative future.
"Sometimes, we take for granted what we ourselves know, what our ancestors have passed down to us. Sometimes it's only in the reflective space that we have the opportunity to truly appreciate this knowledge and share it for the benefit of the planet.”
- Catherine Murupaenga-Ikenn
Igniting a Global Movement of Indigenous Climate Action
Project Peoples is the beating heart of a transformative alliance, uniting visionary nonprofits, pioneering social enterprises, and Indigenous wisdom-keepers to co-create a regenerative future for all life on Earth. Together, we are ushering in a new era of planet-positive solutions that honor the inherent rights and leadership of Indigenous Peoples.
Project Partners:
A nonprofit network fostering regenerative systems and cultivating a new generation of global stewards.
A public benefit advisory and education platform activating planet-positive action worldwide.
Project Peoples is building a bridge between Indigenous knowledge and action
Supporting Indigenous Science
Our focus is to bring together the expertise of Indigenous solutionists from around the world to share their solutions and best practices. This crucial stage involves in-depth research and evaluation of Indigenous technologies and practices. Through meticulous review and documentation, we aim to create a comprehensive repository of invaluable knowledge that can inform and inspire global climate action efforts.
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Conduct thorough research on Indigenous Climate Solutions
Evaluate the effectiveness and scalability of identified practices
Document findings in a clear, accessible format
Begin building a comprehensive knowledge respository
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Collaborate and co-create with Indigenous communities
Utilize both Indigenous science and modern scientific methods
Ensure ethical and respectful research practices
Validate findings through peer review and community feedback
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A rich database of Indigenous Climate Solutions
Increased visibility for traditional ecological knowledge
Foundations for implementing solutions on a global scale
Strengthened partnerships with Indigenous communities worldwide
Read Our Report:
This well-researched, foundational understanding of Indigenous technologies and practices highlights the many climate solutions implemented by Indigenous Peoples around the world. These solutions need to be better known, supported, and funded at the international scale.
Made possible through the generous support of GROUNDED, the Founder of the Project Peoples Supporters Circle.
Meet Our Indigenous Steering Council
At the heart of Project Peoples is our diverse, 10-member Indigenous Steering Council. This intergenerational, interdisciplinary, and internationally-represented group guides and advances our mission, ensuring that Indigenous knowledge and wisdom are honored and uplifted throughout our work.
Global
Representation
Hailing from diverse Indigenous communities across six continents, from the Arctic Circle to the Amazon rainforest, our global reach allows us to incorporate a wide range of cultural perspectives and local knowledge into our climate solutions.
Intergenerational
Wisdom
Bridging the gap between elders who have spent decades on the frontlines of Indigenous rights and environmental protection, and younger leaders who are charting innovative pathways for the future. This intergenerational approach ensures that time-honored traditions are combined with cutting-edge thinking.
Interdisciplinary
Expertise
Our council members specialize in fields ranging from traditional ecological knowledge, to community organizing, to environmental science and policy. This diverse expertise allows us to tackle the climate crisis through a holistic, multifaceted lens, drawing on both Indigenous wisdom and Western academic disciplines.
Indigenous Leadership
At the core of our project is a steadfast commitment to centering Indigenous voices and experiences. Every decision, strategy, and initiative is guided by the leadership and guidance of our Indigenous Steering Council, ensuring that our work remains grounded in the needs and priorities of the communities we serve.
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Catherine Murupaenga-Ikenn
Ngāti Kurī and Te Rarawa Māori Peoples, Aotearoa
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David Karabelnikoff
Unangan and Dena’ina Peoples, Alaska
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Kurikindi
Kichwa Peoples, Ecuador
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Pauline Owiti
Siaya Peoples, Kenya
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Roberto Múkaro Borrero
Taino Peoples, Caribbean Islands & Florida
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Sachem Wushouwunan Kesikbesek Maxé Rua
Hereditary Chief of the Schaghticoke First Nation, Husdon Valley
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Sara Nawashahu Yawanawá-Bergin
Aldeia Shukuvana Yawanawa Peoples, Brazil
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Shirley Krenak
Krenak Peoples, Brazil
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Uyunkar Domingo Peas Nampichkai
Achuar Peoples, Ecuador
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Yurshell Rodriguez
Raizal Peoples, Caribbean Islands / Colombia