Fourth National Climate Assessment Chapter 15 - Tribes and Indigenous Peoples

Indigenous peoples in the United States are diverse as well as distinct political and cultural groups and populations. Though they may be affected by climate change in ways that are similar to others in the United States, Indigenous peoples can also be affected uniquely and disproportionately. Many Indigenous peoples have lived in particular areas for hundreds if not thousands of years. Indigenous peoples' histories and shared experience engender distinct knowledge about climate change impacts and strategies for adaptation. Indigenous peoples' traditional knowledge systems can play a role in advancing understanding of climate change and in developing more comprehensive climate adaptation strategies. This poster describes the process and findings of the Fourth National Climate Assessment Chapter (Chapter 15): Tribes and Indigenous Peoples. To develop this chapter, authors conducted a review of recent peer-reviewed literature and other resources that meet specified quality criteria to identify key research findings on the impacts of climate change to Indigenous peoples. Authors considered comments in response to public notices in the Federal Register, webinars and regional workshops, and federal agency reviews. The Bureau of Indian Affairs worked with partners, including the College of Menominee Nation and Salish Kootenai College to solicit input in 2016 and 2017 during national conferences of the American Indian Higher Education Consortium, the Native American Fish and Wildlife Society, and the National Tribal Forum on Air Quality, Rising Voices, as well as during the Native Waters on Arid Lands Tribal Summit, the BIA Tribal Providers Conference, and the Tribes and First Nations Summit. The chapter was extensively reviewed by the public and subject matter experts, including federal agencies and a panel of the National Academy of Sciences. After considering all input received, authors focused the chapter on key themes of climate change adaptation and climate impacts to Indigenous peoples' economies, livelihoods, and health. Included in the chapter is an interactive map of over 800 climate resilience actions undertaken by Indigenous peoples across the United States.