INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Sustainable Development is a growing field that focuses on how traditional wisdom and local practices can help solve modern environmental problems. For a long time, modern science and traditional knowledge were seen as completely different, but recently, there has been a shift toward combining them to reach the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This chapter looks at how Indigenous communities use their deep understanding of nature to manage resources like water and land, conserve biodiversity, and handle waste. It also explores how these ancient systems are being supported by modern technology, such as Information Technology and big data, to make them even more effective. By looking at case studies from India, Nigeria, and other regions, we can see that Indigenous knowledge is not just about the past; it is a vital tool for social mobility and environmental resilience. This chapter covers the scope, methods, benefits, and challenges of using Indigenous knowledge in the 21st century, emphasizing its role in creating a more equitable and sustainable future for everyone.