Presence & power: The illusion of Indigenous inclusion in climate adaptation plans in Canada

By Janna Wale
Over the past several years, there has been an increasing recognition of the importance of including Indigenous knowledge in both responding and adapting to climate change. Canada’s first National Adaptation Strategy (NAS) and associated Action Plan (NAP), released in draft in 2022, presented a landmark opportunity for Indigenous people to both meaningfully contribute and lead climate action and adaptation. However, many aspects of Indigenous inclusion and representation in the development of the NAS and NAP fell short. This research considers the involvement (or lack thereof) of Indigenous peoples in adaptation planning and decision-making in Canada.

Supporting climate action and Indigenous self-determination: Ethical space-based planning in the Upper Columbia region of British Columbia

By Moe Nadeau
Planners play a key role in shaping society, but have historically oppressed Indigenous communities. Adopting Ethical Space-based planning can balance power dynamics between Indigenous and non-Indigenous governments, fostering collaboration and ethical decision-making for land. Indigenous voices are the key to climate action, as their deep connection and commitment to act in relationship with the land supports long-term sustainability. This research offers recommendations to advance Ethical Space in planning initiatives. Through Ethical Space, planners can create more just and resilient futures.

The central importance of relationality for climate action and culturally sensitive land-use planning in Indigenous territories

By Geneviève Vachon, Florence Gagnon, Élisa Gouin and Samuel Boudreault
Indigenous communities are struggling with climate change that threatens their relationship to the territory that is the basis of their identity. Four concepts linked to indigenous realities – traditional knowledge, agency, temporality, and relationality – provide keys to understanding this threat. A research-creation project with an Anishinaabe community illustrates possibilities for adaptation as concrete levers for discussion and action.

A just energy transition for Indigenous Peoples: From ideal deliberation to fairness in Canada and Australia

By Fabienne Rioux-Gobeil
In response to the climate crisis, renewable energy projects are being developed around the world and mostly, on Indigenous traditional territories. In countries such as Canada and Australia, the questions of Indigenous national sovereignties are still unclear and unresolved which causes complex issues of unequal power relations. About energy security, resurgence and self-determination, the energy transition could be the promise of great opportunities for Indigenous peoples. However, to benefit from renewable energy projects, they have to be in a position to fairly defend their interests.