Climate Change Realities Highlighted For Indigenous People's Day
Each August 9, the United Nations observes International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples. The occasion serves to promote the rights of the estimated 370 million indigenous peoples in the world today, as well as recognize their achievements and contributions. On this day, it is important to also consider how to honor and respect these communities as they face the imminent threat of climate change.
Indigenous people lead low carbon lives and are excellent stewards of the environment. Unfortunately, the rampant carbon pollution and resource depletion caused by developed and developing countries means indigenous populations now increasingly face the dire consequences of a warming climate.
Matthew Powell