Human–nature relationships through the lens of reciprocity: Insights from Indigenous and local knowledge systems
Irene Teixidor‐Toneu, Álvaro Fernández‐Llamazares, Ricardo Álvarez, Gantuya Batdelger, Elicia Bell, Sophie Caillon, Maurício Cantor, Joel E. Correia, Sandra Dı́az, Jonathan Fisk, Alexander M. Greene, Spencer Greening, Simon Hoyte, Raivo Kalle, Gabriela Loayza, Giulia Mattalia, Rommel Montúfar, Jaime Ojeda, Suwichan Phatthanaphraiwan, Ismael Vaccaro, Natalie C. Ban
Abstract
Abstract In the context of climate change, biodiversity decline and social injustice, reciprocity emerges as a way of living and being in this world that holds transformative potential. Concepts of reciprocity vary and are enacted in specific cultural practices grounded in Indigenous and local knowledge systems. This editorial synthesises first‐hand evidence of how practising reciprocity can result in positive reciprocal contributions between people and nature. It also offers a theoretical justification of why considering reciprocity can lead to more equitable, inclusive and effective conservation and sustainability policy and practices, contributing to curving the colonial baggage of academic inquiry and development action. Nurturing reciprocal relations between people, especially between academics and Indigenous Peoples and local communities, is a necessary first step to identifying pathways whereby living in harmony with nature can be achieved.