UBC is working towards mechanisms and processes that ensure Indigenous perspectives, communities and worldviews shape the development and implementation of climate-related initiatives and policies.
The negative impacts of climate change disproportionately affect Indigenous peoples due to their relationship and dependence on the environment. In addition, Indigenous peoples’ legal position in settler societies and institutionalized colonialism limit their ability to adapt to and cope with climate change. This amplifies the need for Indigenous perspectives, communities, and worldviews within broader institutional climate emergency plans, strategies, and activities.
Progress
SHORT TERM (1-3 YEARS)
Efforts to support this strategic priority area are emerging as UBC’s new Climate Emergency Senior Managers explore opportunities to use UBC’s Indigenous Strategic Plan (ISP) and Self-Assessment Tools to support embedding Indigenous perspectives into climate-related policies and initiatives.
| Indigenous Strategic Plan (ISP): Through this plan, UBC became the first university in North America to commit to implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). September 2020. Learn more. |
| UBC Sustainability Hub embeds ISP in New Strategic Plan: The UBC Sustainability Hub was among the first units at UBC to use the Self-Assessment Tool and weave key ISP actions into their new five-year strategic plan. July 2021. Learn more. |
Related Resources
Haida Gwaii Semesters
Senior undergraduate students from a wide range of disciplines at UBC are eligible to participate in intensive 14-week programs facilitated by the Haida Gwaii Institute. Courses span a range of topics including Natural Resource Science, Natural Resource Studies, Social-Ecological Change, Community Resilience, and Marine Conservation.
Writing the Land
xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) elder Larry Grant shares his experience rediscovering his language and traditions on territory where the Musqueam people have lived for thousands of years.
