Learning ‘from’ and ‘with’ the Locals: Traditional Knowledge Systems for Environmental Sustainability in the Himalayas

This book aims to capture the fading traditional knowledge systems of local and indigenous communities in the Himalayas. As many of these practices are at risk of disappearing, the book serves as a valuable record. It encourages readers to reflect on the implications of such knowledge for environmental sustainability today. Focusing on one of the most crucial mountain ranges globally, the book emphasizes the importance of learning ‘from’ and ‘with’ the locals about their lived experiences in the Himalayas. Understanding their unique set of traditional knowledge and technologies is crucial for building climate resilience and effective environmental management. With contributions from experts across the Himalayan region, the book strives for a comprehensive grasp of environmental challenges and potential solutions. Beyond documentation, the goal is to explore opportunities for integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches. Recognizing the urgency, the book advocates for the preservation of local and indigenous knowledge to address the ongoing global environmental crisis.