The knowledge systems and practices of Indigenous Peoples and local communities play
\ncritical roles in safeguarding the biological and cultural diversity of our planet. Globalization,
\ngovernment policies, capitalism, colonialism, and other rapid social-ecological changes threaten the
\nrelationships between Indigenous Peoples and local communities and their environments, thereby
\nchallenging the continuity and dynamism of Indigenous and Local Knowledge (ILK). In this article,
\nwe contribute to the \u201cWorld Scientists\u2019 Warning to Humanity,\u201d issued by the Alliance of World
\nScientists, by exploring opportunities for sustaining ILK systems on behalf of the future stewardship of our planet. Our warning raises the alarm about the pervasive and ubiquitous erosion of knowledge
\nand practice and the social and ecological consequences of this erosion. While ILK systems can be
\nadaptable and resilient, the foundations of these knowledge systems are compromised by ongoing
\nsuppression, misrepresentation, appropriation, assimilation, disconnection, and destruction of
\nbiocultural heritage. Three case studies illustrate these processes and how protecting ILK is central to
\nbiocultural conservation. We conclude with 15 recommendations that call for the recognition and
\nsupport of Indigenous Peoples and local communities and their knowledge systems. Enacting these
\nrecommendations will entail a transformative and sustained shift in how ILK systems, their knowledge holders, and their multiple expressions in lands and waters are recognized, affirmed, and valued. We appeal for urgent action to support the efforts of Indigenous Peoples and local communities around the world to maintain their knowledge systems, languages, stewardship rights, ties to lands and waters, and the biocultural integrity of their territories\u2014on which we all depend.<\/p>\n\n
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