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A recent Nature Communications article, “Governance of Indigenous Data in Open Earth Systems Science,” highlights the need for stronger Indigenous data governance in Earth science. Large-scale projects like the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) follow open data principles but often overlook Indigenous sovereignty over data collected from Indigenous lands. 

The authors advocate for implementing the CARE Principles to ensure Indigenous Peoples retain control over their data. They recommend collaborative access protocols, improved metadata standards, and stronger institutional relationships with Indigenous communities.

Local Contexts is featured as a tool in this effort, with the Traditional Knowledge and Biocultural Labels and Notices being used to ensure Indigenous rights and governance are embedded in data systems and scientific research.

This article is an important step in acknowledging the importance of Indigenous sovereignty in Earth Science. 

Authors:

• Lydia Jennings (Pascua Yaqui Tribe, Huichol)
• Katherine Jones (Blackfeet Nation)
• Riley Taitingfong (Chamoru)
• Andrew Martinez (Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, Yaqui, Diegueño/Iipay)
• Dominique David-Chavez (Arawak Taíno)
• Rosanna ʻAnolani Alegado (Kanaka ʻŌiwi)
• Adrien Tofighi-Niaki
• Julie Maldonado
• Bill Thomas (Kanaka Maoli, Māori)
• Dennis Dye (Cherokee Nation)
• Jeff Weber
• Katie V. Spellman
• Scott Ketchum (Choctaw Nation, Cherokee, Lenape)
• Ruth Duerr
• Noor Johnson
• Jennifer Balch
• Stephanie Russo Carroll (Ahtna, Native Village of Kluti-Kaah)

Read the full article here.