ROOTED KNOWLEDGE: INDIGENOUS SCIENCE FOR HIGH‑MOUNTAIN BIODIVERSITY
Biodiversity and Territory is an illustrated, community-centered guide created to support Indigenous Pasto youth in learning about the rich biological diversity of their high‑mountain ecosystems. Rooted in Indigenous science and ways of knowing, the project was led by Indigenous women researchers who used participatory, community-based methods to document key species and strengthen intergenerational knowledge about caring for the land.
Over the course of two years, the team worked closely with community members to identify and record a wide range of flora and fauna, including birds, mammals, insects, and native plants that are vital to the ecosystem’s balance. The guide also brings attention to threatened species such as the mountain tapir (Tapirus pinchaque), emphasizing the urgency of protecting fragile high‑mountain environments.
Beyond documenting biodiversity, the project centers cultural identity, language, and traditional ecological knowledge, ensuring that conservation efforts remain grounded in Indigenous perspectives. It promotes gender-inclusive participation, highlighting the leadership and knowledge of Indigenous women in environmental research and stewardship. The guide also raises awareness about growing environmental challenges, including deforestation, habitat loss, and climate change, while offering locally rooted solutions based on community knowledge and practices. By combining science, storytelling, and visual learning, the project makes complex ecological concepts accessible and meaningful for younger generations. Through this work, Tejiendo Pensamiento continues to expand community-led, decolonial research approaches that respect Indigenous data sovereignty, uphold cultural integrity, and prioritize the voices of local communities. This initiative not only strengthens biodiversity conservation but also empowers youth to become future stewards of their territories, ensuring that Indigenous knowledge systems continue to thrive for generations to come.
