Indigenous communities across Latin America protect ecosystems with ancestral knowledge

Indigenous communities in South America strengthen protection of seas, forests and rivers through ancestral knowledge and innovation.

By El Medio Oriente

September 5, 2026

Members of an indigenous community in traditional clothing with white and black geometric motifs walk along a concrete path through dense tropical rainforest, holding green branches, while a man in white and blue uniform observes from the foreground. — Indigenous communities of South America participate in environmental conservation actions, using their ancestral knowledge to protect local ecosystems. The image shows community members carrying natural elements during what appears to be a ceremony or environmental education activity in the tropical rainforest. (Mongabay — Latam)

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Indigenous communities in South America are reinforcing the conservation of seas, forests and rivers through the application of ancestral knowledge combined with innovation. In Chile, indigenous methods such as pirene fish traps restore marine ecosystems and ensure food sources for local communities.

In Peru, a model developed by indigenous peoples is accelerating the processes of granting titles to territories designated for the protection of Amazon forests. In Ecuador, Waorani communities integrate scientific practices with traditional knowledge to strengthen the management of their lands.

Indigenous communities across Latin America protect ecosystems with ancestral knowledge

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