Rooted Resistance - how eco-cultural communities negotiate and resist epistemic loss
This research explores the intersection of cultural integrity, environmental sustainability and food
sovereignty in the context of colonised, semi-arid lands. Examining how small-scale agricultural workers
and indigenous communities resist epistemic loss, this study emphasises the importance of local
knowledge systems in contemporary environmental management, challenging narratives that justify
fortress conservation and state encroachment into communal territories. The specific questions to be
investigated include; What are the key characteristics of eco-cultural identities that shape the lives of
small-scale agricultural workers and indigenous communities in Cyprus and Northeast Brazil? How have
historical and contemporary processes of colonisation and environmental policies challenged these
socio-ecological relations? How can these insights inform policy and mobilize global efforts to foster
healthy, thriving communities? Through a comparative analysis utilising document reviews, semistructured
interviews, eco-cultural mapping and ethnographic research, the projects investigates
similarities and differences between Cyprus and Northeast Brazil communities’ socio-ecological
autonomy. Building on the applicant’s lived experience and contacts in these two regions, this project
takes an innovative, interdisciplinary approach by documenting the importance of place-based identities
and their role in socio-biodiversity. It connects social science with environmental research to tackle
environmental challenges in semi-arid regions, and beyond. The findings will address critical gaps in our
understanding of: 1) the relation between bioregional solidarity networks and epistemic loss, 2) the
types of capacity building and support required for inclusive and effective participatory governance, 3)
policy infrastructures needed to implement climate-resilient land management and support food
sovereignty.