‘Nature markets’ may help preserve biodiversity – but they risk repeating colonial patterns of Indigenous exploitation

Hall D, Taikoto M, Whitaker N, Raroa R, Turoa Gillies T, 2024, The Conversation

The article highlights the importance of Indigenous sovereignty in emerging nature markets like biodiversity credits. While these markets aim to restore ecosystems, they risk replicating colonial patterns if Indigenous rights are ignored. Indigenous sovereignty, particularly over data, is essential to ensure fair involvement in these markets. Data sovereignty gives Indigenous communities control over the collection and use of data related to their lands and resources, helping to safeguard their knowledge. Respecting this sovereignty ensures nature markets empower Indigenous peoples, rather than exploit their land and traditions.

You can read this article here.