The Prospects of Participatory Research in Improving Climate Literacy: Insights from Experiences with Indigenous People and Local Communities

Abstract

This commentary explores the role of participatory research in improving climate literacy among Indigenous peoples and local communities (IPLCs) in Southeast Asia. IPLCs, deeply interconnected with their natural environments, face disproportionate vulnerabilities to climate change due to limited access to information and socioeconomic disparities. We conceptualize IPLC-relevant climate literacy, encompassing understanding climate change science and nature-based carbon sinks, being aware of adaptation options, and understanding how carbon markets work and the associated risks. We draw on our participatory research experience in the Philippines and Laos, motivated by the importance of integrating local knowledge with scientific knowledge. Our participatory research projects engaged IPLCs in various stages, enabling shared decision making and knowledge exchange. In the Philippines, functional participatory research saw IPLCs understanding and advocating for mangrove and seagrass ecosystems’ role in climate change adaptation. In Laos, empowerment-focused participatory action research explored soil management practices’ impacts on soil moisture, promoting community-led adaptation strategies. However, limitations include the challenges to achieving extensive community outreach and time and cost constraints in fieldwork. Although participatory research offers a valuable platform, there should be a more active and broader program for improving IPLCs’ climate literacy to enhance climate resilience.