The sacred and climate change: Local perceptions from KaNyaka island in Mozambique

Residents of KaNyaka Island, Mozambique, perceive climate change as deeply intertwined with their spiritual and physical environments, offering critical insights for adaptation strategies. This study reveals that integrating local ecological knowledge—rooted in everyday observations and worldviews—enhances collective responses to climate risks. Researchers used semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and forum theater to capture diverse perceptions, arguing that scientists should collaborate with communities as co-producers of knowledge to address socio-environmental challenges effectively. The approach highlights the potential for climate adaptation when grounded in localized experiences and spiritual frameworks.

Mubai, M. E., Bandeira, S. O., Combane, D. J., Daw, T., Gonzalez, T., O’Neill, E. M. D., & Garcia, M. M. (2023). The sacred and climate change: Local perceptions from KaNyaka island in Mozambique. Climate Risk Management, 42, 100564. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.crm.2023.100564