Enhancing urban resilience to climate change through traditional ecological methods in forest management

Enhancing Urban Resilience to Climate Change Through Traditional Ecological Methods in Forest Management

As cities face intensifying climate threats—from heatwaves and flooding to declining air quality—integrating traditional ecological methods into urban forest management offers innovative pathways to resilience. Rooted in centuries of Indigenous and local knowledge, these methods emphasize harmony with natural systems, adaptive land use, and biodiversity preservation. Techniques such as selective planting based on native species, traditional fire management to reduce fuel loads, and water-sensitive landscape design can help urban forests serve as natural buffers against climate impacts. For example, in parts of Australia, Indigenous fire management practices are being adapted in peri-urban landscapes to mitigate wildfire risks while maintaining ecological balance. Similarly, in North America, urban Indigenous communities are revitalizing land stewardship practices in green spaces and urban forests to restore native biodiversity and improve community well-being. By drawing on Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK), cities can not only improve their environmental health but also create inclusive, culturally-informed climate adaptation strategies that empower Indigenous voices and reconnect urban populations with nature.