INTRODUCING.
A PROPOSAL FOR SDG #18: Integrating Traditional Knowledge.
a tool that recognizes the value that Indigenous Knowledge adds to the overal Sustainable Development Goals and that also represents the voice and value of nature.
This proposal for a new UN Sustainability Development Goal acts on the words of United Nations Secretary General, Antonio Guterres in his 2024 Statement on Indigenous Peoples.
Secretary General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres.
“Indigenous Peoples are the keepers of knowledge and traditions that help safeguard some of the most biodiverse areas of our planet. As guardians of the environment, their survival is our survival.”
WOMEN LEAD THE FUTURE IN SCIENCE DIPLOMACY
In January of 2025, the proposal for this new SDG#18 was shared with the world through the WILSON Center (*) and has been met with global support.
On June 19, a Congress will take place in Lima, Peru, that will present women leaders from various sectors—scientists, researchers, environmental defenders, technologists, and representatives from Indigenous communities—to share their experiences, inspire new generations, and foster collaborative networks. More testimonials that support SDG#18 will be obtained at that time.
This event will be organized by Amazon Research Internacional, funded by the Embassy of Spain.
YOU are invited to add your voice and support.
Tell us in what ways Traditional Knowlegde added value to your life
Rosa Vásquez Espinoza, Ph.D.
I express my full support for the inclusion of SDG 18, "Integrating Traditional Knowledge", as an essential framework for equitable and effective sustainable development. Incorporating SDG#18 is not about romanticizing the past, it is about recalibrating the future. One that is inclusive, just, and grounded in multiple ways of knowing. Traditional Knowledge is not alternative science. It is essential science. It is time the world recognized it as such.
Andrés Ruzo
The incorporation of SDG #18: Integrating Traditional Knowledge would be of great value for the SDG program, and a natural expansion and point of growth. We will see with greater depth when we see the world with both eyes. Traditional Knowledge and Modern Western Science are ultimately based on astute human observations of the natural world. The interpretations of those observations may, and do often differ-- but the core empirical observations, more often than not-- complement each other, improve understanding, and provide a more complete set register of empirical evidence. If we are to survive as a species, we desperately need to reconnect with Nature, and understand that oneness that is so core to traditional knowledge systems. That which is sacred is that which gives us life-- clean air, clean water, nutritious food, meaningful relationships that fulfill our lives, joy, wonder, celebration, connection. We need these to thrive. For these and so many other reasons, I strongly support the addition of SDG #18.
Pamela Peeters
I always found great joy in nature and when I was 12 year old, I created my first environmental magazine with my best friend. Today, I still inspire kids and adults alike to develop an interest in ecology and conscious - sustainable - lifestyles through the creation of new concepts such as the ECO-genist project, the Eco Hero Lab, the SDG#18, media, books and art. If you want to make a difference for the future of our planet, then you have to understand how the world works, AND what the needs of Mother Earth are. The inclusion of both considerations in our mind-sets and heart-sets will generate an authentic sustainable society and this can only be achieved when we fully integrate the voices of Indigenous People since they understand the language of Mother Earth.
Avita Taricuarima
"As young Kukama, the knowledge of our ancestors gives us identity and strength to care for the forest that surrounds us, and to live in balance with the forest and its spirits.
Dr. Martin Nweeia
50 years of living among indigenous peoples has taught me to listen to these wisdom-keepers. Their voices echo the spirit of Mother Earth, and it is time to bring their messages to the global stage.
