Indigenous and local communities can boost seed supply in the UN decade on ecosystem restoration

Ambio. 2022 Mar;51(3):557-568. doi: 10.1007/s13280-021-01593-z. Epub 2021 Jul 6.

Abstract

The UN Decade of Ecosystem Restoration is poised to trigger the recovery of ecosystem services and transform structural injustices across the world in a way unparalleled in human history. The inclusion of diverse Indigenous and local communities to co-create robust native seed supply systems is the backbone to achieve the goals for the Decade. Here we show how community-based organizations have co-developed native seed supply strategies for landscape restoration from the bottom-up. We draw on the interconnections over two decades of seed networks in Brazil and the emerging Indigenous participation in native seed production in Australia. From an environmental justice perspective, we provide a participatory seed supply approach for local engagement, noting local geographical, social and cultural contexts. Meeting large-scale restoration goals requires the connection between local seed production and collaborative platforms to negotiate roles, rights and responsibilities between stakeholders. An enduring native seed supply must include a diversity of voices and autonomy of community groups that builds equitable participation in social, economic, and environmental benefits.

Keywords: Community participation; Environmental justice; Local livelihoods; Native seed; Restoration economy.

MeSH terms

  • Australia
  • Brazil
  • Ecosystem*
  • Environmental Justice
  • Humans
  • United Nations*