Ecosystem restoration and Indigenous Peoples and local communities: Learning from protected and conserved areas

Abstract Introduction Global interest in, and funding for, ecosystem restoration is growing in the face of ongoing ecosystem degradation. The role and inclusion of Indigenous Peoples and local communities (IP (2) management/implementation; and (3) impacts/outcomes. Questions were identified along each stage and used to guide eight in‐depth expert interviews (including with four Indigenous Peoples), the analysis of six case studies and a literature review. Results Along each of the three main phases of the restoration process I find several lessons from PCAs of relevance. Phase I – Site selection: Carry out inclusive processes for identification of restoration sites; Guarantee full FPIC; Share data transparently; Give voice to IP Facilitate consultation processes; Prioritize tenure security; Use locally developed maps; Acknowledge divergent worldviews; Adapt western ideas to Indigenous knowledge and practice in restoration. Phase II – Implementation: Develop collaborative restoration plans; Ensure fair remuneration; Include Indigenous knowledge in implementation; Include IP Recognize the role of IP Ensure governance and management mechanisms enable favorable outcomes for IP Ensure benefits of restoration reach IP Attend to within‐community variation (e.g., gender, ethnicity, religion, age sometimes), which can distort benefits distribution; Include IP 2. the need for innovative tools to combine knowledge systems at all stages of the restoration cycle; 3. the need for more comprehensive and culturally relevant measures of restoration.