Indigenous Knowledge Shapes Conservation Efforts in Chile’s Kütralkura UNESCO Global Geopark
In southern Chile, the breathtaking landscapes of the Kütralkura UNESCO Global Geopark are more than just a geological treasure—they represent a deep cultural and spiritual connection between nature and the Indigenous communities who have lived there for generations. For the Mapuche people, the land is known as Ñuke Mapu, meaning “Mother Earth,” a living system that deserves respect, protection, and careful stewardship.
This philosophy has guided the Mapuche community for centuries, shaping how they interact with forests, rivers, and volcanic landscapes in the region. Today, these traditional values are playing a vital role in the governance and management of the geopark, ensuring that conservation efforts reflect both scientific understanding and Indigenous knowledge.
At the center of this effort is Camila Jara Quilapan, who is working to integrate Indigenous identity and cultural values into the decision-making processes that shape the geopark’s future. Her work highlights the importance of including Indigenous voices in environmental governance, particularly in areas where local communities have long-standing relationships with the land.
The Kütralkura Geopark is known for its remarkable geological features, including active volcanoes, lava fields, and diverse ecosystems. Recognized by the UNESCO, the geopark serves as both a conservation area and an educational platform where visitors can learn about geology, biodiversity, and cultural heritage.
For the Mapuche people, however, the land’s significance goes far beyond its physical beauty. The concept of Ñuke Mapu reflects a worldview in which humans are part of nature rather than separate from it. This perspective emphasizes balance, responsibility, and respect for natural systems—principles that align closely with modern ideas of sustainable development.
Camila Jara Quilapan’s work focuses on ensuring that the geopark’s governance model reflects these Indigenous principles. By promoting community participation and incorporating traditional knowledge into environmental management strategies, she aims to create a system that protects both the natural landscape and the cultural heritage connected to it.
The collaboration between Indigenous communities, scientists, and policymakers in Kütralkura demonstrates how traditional wisdom can complement modern conservation practices. It also highlights a broader global movement to recognize the role of Indigenous knowledge in addressing environmental challenges.
As climate change and environmental pressures continue to affect ecosystems around the world, places like the Kütralkura UNESCO Global Geopark offer an important example of how culture, science, and sustainability can work together. Through leadership and community engagement, initiatives like this ensure that the voices of Indigenous peoples remain central to the stewardship of the land they have protected for generations.
