Integrating indigenous knowledge and State-of-Art Earth Observation solutions for the Sendai Framework implementation

This paper discusses potential of earth observation (EO) in providing simplistic and operational tools for the systemic risk analysis to complement Indigenous Knowledges covering nature-based solutions (NBS). This approach helps to address the techno-cultural complexities and provide robust baselines to meet the 2030 Sendai Framework Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) targets. It describes relevant international frameworks and instruments in the context of role of Indigenous communities in building disaster resilience. The role of EO based tools and solutions is highlighted that have potential to contribute in achieving global targets of the Sendai Framework and providing nature-based solutions through the specific examples on the Ecosystem-based Disaster Risk Reduction (Eco-DRR) that has high relevance to complement the knowledges of Indigenous communities.

The study addresses the inequity of access regarding space, and other technology by Indigenous Peoples and acknowledges the political, cultural, logistical, and other challenges to address this concern. The study also highlights the lessons learned during the Covid-19 pandemic by DRR community with reference to the use of EO-based solutions which is relevant to Indigenous communities that are vulnerable due to climate extremes. The key messages and recommendations addressed the issues of inequalities relating to technological imbalance, language barriers and gender inclusion.