The environmental justice aspect of land-back and rematriation is closely tied to the Indigenous peoples’ historical and contemporary role as stewards of the land. Indigenous-centered land stewardship practices emphasize sustainability, ecological conservation, and biodiversity preservation. The deep knowledge that Indigenous communities possess about their environments positions them as key contributors to addressing pressing environmental challenges.

Indigenous land stewardship is often rooted in a profound understanding of local ecosystems, passed down through generations. Practices such as rotational agriculture, controlled burns, and selective harvesting are designed to ensure the long-term health of the land and its resources. These sustainable practices stand in contrast to some conventional Western approaches that prioritize short-term gains over the preservation of ecosystems. Indigenous communities view the land not as a commodity but as a living entity that requires careful tending.

Indigenous peoples have traditionally practiced conservation techniques that promote biodiversity and ecosystem health. Their stewardship involves recognizing the interconnectedness of species and ecosystems and understanding that disruptions to one element can have cascading effects. By maintaining diverse landscapes and preserving the habitats of various plant and animal species, Indigenous communities contribute to the overall resilience of ecosystems. This approach contrasts with resource extraction and industrial practices that can lead to habitat destruction and species loss.

Indigenous lands often harbor high levels of biodiversity due to the sustainable management practices employed by Indigenous communities. Traditional ecological knowledge helps preserve and enhance biodiversity by identifying and protecting critical habitats, medicinal plants, and culturally significant species. The loss of biodiversity is a global concern, and Indigenous-centered land stewardship offers a model for maintaining the intricate web of life. Protecting biodiversity is not only crucial for ecological balance but also for ensuring the continued availability of resources that sustain Indigenous communities.

Indigenous peoples, intimately connected to their environments, are among the first to witness the impacts of climate change. Many Indigenous communities are actively engaging in climate adaptation and mitigation strategies rooted in their traditional knowledge. Practices such as agroforestry, which integrates trees and shrubs into agricultural landscapes, and traditional water management systems contribute to climate resilience. Indigenous communities are also advocating for the protection of carbon-rich ecosystems, recognizing the role these areas play in mitigating climate change.

Indigenous land stewardship practices are not solely utilitarian; they often have deep cultural and spiritual significance. The relationship between Indigenous peoples and the land is intertwined with their identity, traditions, and cosmologies. By centering land stewardship in Indigenous values and worldviews, the approach becomes holistic, addressing not only ecological sustainability but also cultural well-being. This interconnectedness fosters a profound sense of responsibility for the land and its inhabitants.

In the Nipmuc homelands, the land-back and rematriation movements emphasize Nipmuc-centered land protection and advocate for a more sustainable and ecologically conscious approach to environmental stewardship. Recognizing and respecting ancestors’ knowledges is essential for addressing the complex environmental challenges facing the world today, and it aligns with the principles of environmental justice by acknowledging the rights and expertise of Nipmuc people in managing their ancestral lands.

Aquene, Cher