Moving Forward Together: Weaving Indigenous and Western Sciences with Practices and Peoples in Aquatic Research in Inuit Nunangat

Abstract

Climate change and development are causing rapid and profound changes in aquatic ecosystems across Inuit Nunangat, the homelands of Inuit in what is now known as Canada. Shared concerns regarding ecological integrity and fundamental knowledge gaps are increasingly drawing Inuit communities and researchers together in partnerships that center Indigenous voices to understand local change. In this thesis, I reviewed the practices of weaving Indigenous and Western sciences in coastal and marine research and monitoring, where an exploration of decision points that shape co-developed projects highlighted a diversity of possible research pathways. Additionally, I collaborated with the community of Kinngait, Nunavut to document Indigenous knowledge of environmental and biodiversity change in marine and lacustrine ecosystems through a questionnaire. This valuable record may inform community decision-making and planning, and will serve future generations. This thesis provides insights to facilitate continued efforts towards meaningful relationships between Inuit and researchers in environmental discourses.