Wilderness Conservation Requires Active Stewardship to Mitigate Human-Induced Changes
Original framing: “How protecting wilderness could mean purposefully tending it, not just leaving it alone” — The Conversation - Global
The concept of wilderness has a long and complex history, shaped by colonialism, imperialism, and the displacement of indigenous peoples. To effectively conserve wilderness, we must acknowledge and address these historical injustices and their ongoing impacts.
The effective conservation of wilderness areas requires a multifaceted approach that incorporates indigenous knowledge and perspectives, acknowledges the historical and ongoing impacts of colonialism and imperialism, and recognizes the rights and interests of indigenous peoples.
This involves decolonizing conservation practices, incorporating intentional management and stewardship, and engaging in cross-cultural exchange and collaboration. By taking a more proactive and culturally sensitive approach to wilderness conservation, we can ensure that these areas remain resilient and adaptable in the face of human-induced changes.