Indigenous Adaptation in the Face of Climate Change

This article discusses important social considerations for developing adaptation plans, including human rights, environmental justice, sovereignty, and traditional ecological knowledge – with a focus on indigenous adaptation planning. It is suggested that tribal and non-tribal communities alike can benefit from incorporating these conscious considerations into planning efforts. The article also explores trends among the adaptation plans of four indigenous tribes in order to identify commonalities in strengthening climate resilience – including the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe, Nez Perce Tribe and the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community.