Local Ecological Knowledge

Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK) refers to the understanding and insights about the environment that communities, often indigenous or local, have developed over generations. This knowledge encompasses details about local species, ecosystems, and natural phenomena, shaped by cultural practices and experiences. LEK is valuable for conservation efforts, resource management, and sustainability because it provides a deep, contextual understanding of how ecosystems function and how people interact with them. Integrating LEK with scientific research can lead to more effective environmental policies and practices, respecting both traditional wisdom and modern science.