Building alliances with First Peoples for insect conservation

Insect populations are declining globally in response to multiple pressures including habitat loss, land-use intensification, climate change, pesticides and invasive species. Many of these practices are deeply imbedded in our current global food production systems. Changes in these systems to support insects are possible. A combination of ecological intensification, expansion of green infrastructure, and support for diversified farming systems can turn the tide. Existing diversified farming systems are supported by many First Peoples and local communities worldwide, who currently have management responsibility over at least a quarter of the earth’s land surface. Alliances with First Peoples can be fostered by scientists and have proven powerful in achieving conservation goals . The Australian National First Peoples Gathering on Climate Change is an example of successful alliance-building fostered by scientists. From this, key requirements for success have been identified to include commitment supporting First Peoples leadership, respecting rights and interests, investing in long-term relationships, finding mutual goals, and working equitably across both Indigenous and scientific knowledge systems