Study of traditional knowledge on biodiversity and climatic indicators of mapuche communities in Chile

Abstract

The objective of this study was to analyze the traditional knowledge currently applied by the Mapuche communities of Chile in their productive, environmental, and sociocultural organization activities; identifying those that can contribute to climate change adaptation and mitigation measures, reflected in the updating of the determined national contribution. We worked with 16 communities that belong to different territories within the Araucanía region in Chile. Four territorial identities of the Mapuche people were taken into account in the study: Lafkenche, Pehuenche, Nagche and Wenteche. The methodology used is based on the analysis of the contents to proceed to the classification of the knowledge and the different concepts in categories and subcategories. The data were obtained through a methodology developed with an intercultural approach, based on interviews and questionnaires applied at different stages. As a result, a set of indicators used by the Mapuche communities was obtained, classified as biological, atmospheric, astronomical, and cultural; an inventory of traditional knowledge and a model of intercultural articulation of traditional and scientific knowledge. In conclusion, it was possible to show that the Mapuche people, who speak their language, have valuable traditional knowledge for adaptation and mitigation to climate change.