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Integration of traditional and local knowledge into national disaster risk reduction policies is seen as a cost-effective and sustainable approach. However, this knowledge integration remains far behind due to the lack of explicit integration tools, according to new research by a team of experts.

Traditional and local knowledge exists within a social, cultural, and economic context related to environmental resources, unlike scientific knowledge, which is generated through formalized research processes. Such knowledge, handed down through generations, is collectively owned and often takes the form of stories, songs, folklore, proverbs, cultural values, beliefs, rituals, community laws, local language, and agricultural practices.

Nepal, India, and Bangladesh share a watershed stretching from the Himalayas to the Bay of Bengal and face increasing frequency and severity of floods, landslides, and cyclones. Traditional and local communities in these countries have valuable knowledge passed down through generations, crucial for disaster risk reduction. This is acknowledged in the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015–2030).

A study led by Dr. Prakash K. Paudel examines the extent of TLK integration into the national policies of Nepal, India, and Bangladesh. The study, "Integrating traditional and local knowledge into disaster risk reduction policies: Insights from Nepal, India and Bangladesh", finds that while TLK is acknowledged in policies, these policies do not provide pathways for integration. It is imperative to have clear integration tools covering legal, economic, and institutional aspects.

More research is needed to document this vast and unparalleled knowledge; otherwise, we risk losing critical resources.

For further details, refer to the journal article published in Environmental Science & Policy