Indigenous Rights and Carbon

Indigenous-led conservation areas require an economic heart. One approach could come through natural climate solutions (NCS) – activities that protect, restore and manage lands to maximize carbon sequestration and storage. Indigenous Peoples have been managing their lands and waters for thousands of years, and they have a wealth of knowledge to continue to steward these lands in healthy and resilient ways. However, there are legal and regulatory challenges to be overcome in actualizing Indigenous-led NCS. Clearly delineated rights to manage the carbon in lands is a necessary precursor to creating Indigenous-led NCS as part of thriving conservation economies in Canada. Led by Mary-Kate Craig, Steven Nitah and Kevin Smith, the 7th Stream will convene conversations and gatherings to determine action steps to achieving carbon rights.