Organization: The Resilience Institute
Our mission is to co-create resilient futures and reduce risks to disasters. We achieve this by developing educational and participatory research initiatives that weave local and cultural knowledge with scientific and technical expertise.
Location: Piikani Nation Reserve, Brockett, Alberta
Country: Canada
Other Organizations Involved: Tannas Conservation; Piikani Nation Lands; Up North on Climate, Laurentian University
©Dylan Leeder, the Good Planet Project
Natural habitats in the Piikani Nation are vulnerable to climate impacts which will exacerbate already stressed environments due to changes in water flow from external dams, overgrazing of traditional lands, and western farming practices. Increasing climate resilience will strengthen Piikani’s culture and autonomy and result in decreased dependency on external agencies. Through our project, we aim to develop a sustainable and flourishing ecosystem encompassing secure water, energy, and food scenarios.
This initiative exemplifies active reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and how trusted partnerships can strengthen capacity to advance climate goals at the local and global level. At a local level, activities will promote hands-on learning will result in community readiness for land restoration and increased biodiversity.
Seeded with traditional plants the Piikani reserve will begin its journey to resilience. Participation of community members in strategies that build momentum skills and capacity to further develop and implement their plans to address climate impacts from multiple, synergistic approaches. This project will benefit all Nation members (those living on the Piikani Nation reserve in southern Alberta, a First Nation reserve of ~3,600 as well other Indigenous communities through North America, their partners and allies.