Valuation and mapping of Biocultural Diversity
The valuation and mapping of biocultural diversity is an emerging research field that explores the intertwined relationships between biological and cultural diversity, recognizing that ecosystems and human cultures co-evolve and shape one another across time and space. This research is grounded in the principle that biodiversity and cultural diversity are not isolated phenomena but are deeply interconnected through shared knowledge systems, land-use practices, belief systems, and languages that reflect and sustain the diversity of life on Earth. Central to this field is the acknowledgment of Indigenous and local knowledge systems as vital sources of ecological understanding and as living expressions of cultural identity and resilience. Valuing biocultural diversity therefore involves more than economic or ecological assessments; it requires a pluralistic approach that respects and incorporates diverse worldviews, including spiritual, symbolic, historical, and place-based meanings of nature. Mapping biocultural diversity spatially is a key methodological tool, enabling researchers to visualize where high levels of biodiversity coincide with rich cultural landscapes, such as sacred natural sites, traditional agricultural systems, or linguistic hotspots. These spatial insights can reveal critical areas of conservation importance that conventional ecological assessments may overlook, especially in regions where cultural practices play a pivotal role in sustaining ecosystem functions. The research emphasizes participatory and transdisciplinary approaches, engaging with local communities, knowledge holders, and stakeholders in the co-production of knowledge, thus fostering empowerment and stewardship. A major focus is on documenting and preserving biocultural heritage in the face of rapid socio-environmental change, such as land-use transformation, climate change, globalization, and cultural homogenization, which threaten both biodiversity and cultural continuity. The field also explores governance mechanisms that support the rights, agency, and knowledge of Indigenous peoples and local communities, promoting inclusive conservation strategies that align with the principles of equity, justice, and sustainability. Ultimately, the valuation and mapping of biocultural diversity aim to inform policy and practice by making visible the often-overlooked cultural dimensions of biodiversity, supporting conservation models that are more holistic, culturally grounded, and socially just. This research contributes to broader efforts toward biocultural sustainability—where the health of ecosystems and the vitality of human cultures are recognized as mutually reinforcing pillars of resilient socio-ecological systems.