Designing a labelling system for biocultural heritage-based products

Although labelling and certification schemes exist for ecological and fair trade products, there is no such scheme that seeks to benefit producers and at the same time specifically protect biological and cultural diversity. A certification system promoting unique biodiversity-based products could be based on the strong overlap between areas of high biological and cultural diversity, and growing evidence that cultural values play a critical role in conserving biodiversity. The interaction between a particular culture, traditional knowledge, and biodiversity and landscape (i.e. ‘biocultural heritage’) is a source of creativity for developing such products. This paper reviews experiences with the Potato Park’s informal trademark, the use of Geographical Indications (GIs) and the Maori Organics label. It shows that existing schemes such as GIs and collective trademarks can be hard for indigenous producers to access, while indigenous schemes can be effective in conserving biodiversity. It presents an alternative ‘Biocultural Heritage Indication’ (BCHI) labelling system which is being developed to ensure wide and easy access by indigenous peoples and protect biocultural diversity

Whakamanahia Te mātauranga o te Māori: Empowering Māori knowledge to support Aotearoa’s aquatic biological heritage

As Aotearoa New Zealand grapples with developing solutions to complex issues surrounding its unique freshwater and marine biological heritage, there is a growing recognition that mātauranga Māori can be ‘unlocked’ and used with great effect alongside western science. Examples where appropriate consideration and development of robust methodologies for the application of mātauranga Māori coexisting alongside western science are increasing. Unfortunately, despite the benefits that can be derived from this collaboration, the quality of engagement is not always satisfactory often due to poor interpersonal relationships and misidentification of the knowledge holders. By providing an appropriately historical context, this article is able to consider the critical issues now facing mātauranga and the Māori knowledge holders today, and fundamental requirements that will empower application of this knowledge within bio-heritage management. We consider how the development of a methodology between mātauranga Māori holders and potential end-users might contribute to improved outcomes for Aotearoa’s biological heritage