Papuan Traditional Ecological Knowledge: Integrating Indigenous Approaches into Environmental Education for Sustainable Futures

Abstract

Papuan communities in Eastern Indonesia possess a rich array of traditional ecological knowledge (TEK), honed over generations and intimately connected to the natural environment. This paper explores the role of Papuan TEK in promoting sustainable environmental practices, focusing on its potential incorporation into formal educational systems in Indonesia. Drawing from case studies of indigenous groups in Papua, the research investigates how environmental knowledge is passed down through oral traditions, rituals, and daily life activities. It highlights the sustainable practices employed by these communities in agriculture, fishing, forest management, and biodiversity conservation, many of which are crucial for addressing pressing global challenges such as climate change, deforestation, and biodiversity loss. The paper also discusses the tensions between traditional knowledge systems and modern educational frameworks, which often overlook or undervalue indigenous practices. This study contributes to the broader field of environmental education by advocating for the integration of Papuan TEK into national curricula, presenting a compelling argument for how indigenous knowledge can inform contemporary environmental conservation efforts and promote sustainability in Indonesia and beyond.