This paper explores the nexus between the changing climate, diverse knowledge systems, culture, and heritage. It stresses the importance of acknowledging diverse knowledge systems such as Indigenous knowledge and local knowledge, as well as the limitations of the current dominant scientific approach. The white paper suggests a framework for collaboration and cooperation between different knowledge systems to address complex global challenges.

The paper defines and distinguishes three categories of knowledge systems: scientific knowledge, indigenous knowledge, and local knowledge. Scientific knowledge is mostly obtained through Western science and technology, Indigenous knowledge includes knowledge gained over generations and passed through oral traditions, while Local knowledge focuses on regional and practical knowledge passed across generations.

The white paper stresses the importance of considering historical context in understanding current climate and heritage issues. It focuses on the ways colonialism, science, and local and indigenous knowledge of climate have affected the perceived value of heritage and cultural monuments. Indigenous responses to climate change are also considered important in a historical perspective.

This paper presents a framework for the integration of plural knowledge systems in climate change policy and action. It highlights some of the challenges in the integration of knowledge systems and sheds light on how this framework is being implemented worldwide. The paper suggested several criteria for evaluating the potential contribution of different knowledge systems in climate change policy, including long-term perspectives, respect for nature and culture, recognition of their interrelations, and movement beyond economic valuations.

The paper’s main ESG issue relates to climate change and the need to integrate different knowledge systems to formulate effective climate change strategies. Defining and describing different knowledge systems highlight cultural issues that are relevant to ESG and suggest that decision-making needs to take these into account. The white paper also acknowledges historical and social challenges in integrating different knowledge systems and recommends a transformational shift in governments’ approach to climate change policy.

To effectively tackle climate change, the white paper recommends the inclusion of diverse knowledge systems in policy and decision-making. Governments should promote collaborative efforts among different knowledge systems while recognizing and respecting their diverse values. Climate change policy and decision-making should consider a historical perspective and move beyond economic valuations to involve other measures that reduce destructive activities that harm the environment. Finally, the white paper calls for a reduction in the perception of the nature-culture duality, which is relevant to ESG and to addressing the climate crisis.