It is not difficult to see how environmental issues have led to an increase in negative impacts on the planet over the years. Problems such as greenhouse gas emissions, waste generation and disposal, deforestation, among other factors, have become the “focus” of attention for the scientific community, because when the planet is affected, the integrity and stability of human life as such is put at risk.
By Jhon Gregory Mendez Embs
Each day, thousands of ways are being explored to find technology strategies or methods to deal with these situations. There is no one who can manage and regulate everything efficiently and without any repercussions. This happens because people give priority to economic benefits or the importance of protecting the environment.
But, indigenous culture will always be a fundamental aspect of the history and development humanity. The worldview of some native peoples opens up new concepts that relate all objects of scientific research and that attempt to explain the processes occurring on the planet. This is how entering these cultures can enrich and enhance human knowledge.
This is evident in the customs of Kggabba (Kogui), an indigenous community in Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. According to the Colombian Ministry of Culture it establishes a social system based on the law of birth, which is a norm that determines the guidelines for man-nature’s relationship and behaviour.
Territoriality of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Sacred place for Kogui Indians
For the Kggabba(Kogui), all ecosystems are living beings that make up Mother Earth. The rivers, plants, animals, and the entire environment are all part of the mystical gear of the spiritual realm they call aluna. This is how the Kggabba, or Kogui, maintain a close connection with nature from birth to their adult lives. They are, in fact, considered to be the guardians of harmony and nature around the world.
Their strong connection to the environment means that they can understand multiple natural, climatic, and ecological processes without needing to do any scientific research. They can also advocate for actions to address environmental problems. They have all the knowledge they need and it has been passed down to them from their ancestors.
It is here that indigenous mysticism, cosmovision, and cosmovision play an important role in talking about the protection, restoration, and conservation of the environment. Understanding that the planet is a system and deserves our complete and unconditional respect, and that we must act for its benefit over all other elements, is crucial.
Because they lack scientific backing, Indigenous communities can be discriminated against. Their concepts and perceptions are often not considered when decisions are made that affect the environment. This should change.
Because of the connections they have made with the planet through their culture, they can provide effective solutions to problems without having to look for other interests.
You might be interested: Aluna Documentary film on the Kggabba (Kogui)
