The Basic Concept of Spirit-Led Conservation across Melanesia

by Wewo Kotokay, Melanesian Conservation Elders, Inc.

At the core of the concept of Spirit-Led Conservation is the belief that spiritual beliefs and practices play a crucial role in shaping our relationship with nature and guiding conservation efforts.

Philosophy can be defined as a set of beliefs or values that guide an individual or a group’s actions and understanding of the world. In the context of conservation, philosophy refers to the underlying beliefs and values that drive efforts to protect and preserve the environment.

Spirit, in this context, can refer to a supernatural entity or force that is believed to animate living beings and the natural world. It can also refer to an individual’s inner essence or consciousness. Spirituality often involves a deep connection to nature, a sense of reverence for the Earth, and a belief in interconnectedness with all living beings.

Conservation is the act of protecting and preserving natural resources, ecosystems, and biodiversity. It involves managing human activities in a way that minimizes harm to the environment, while also promoting sustainability and the well-being of future generations.

Spirit-led, in the context of conservation, means that spiritual beliefs and practices are integrated into conservation efforts. This approach recognizes the importance of incorporating indigenous wisdom, traditional knowledge, and spiritual teachings into modern conservation practices.

In many Melanesian tribes, traditional stories and beliefs are deeply intertwined with the land and its ecological systems. For example, some tribes believe in the existence of spirit-hotspots, places where powerful spiritual energies are believed to reside. These spirit-hotspots are often seen as sacred sites that hold significant cultural and ecological value.

Incorporating these traditional stories and beliefs into conservation efforts can be a powerful way to engage local communities in environmental protection. By recognizing and respecting the spiritual connections that indigenous peoples have with the land, conservation initiatives can be more culturally sensitive and sustainable in the long run.

One example of Spirit-Led Conservation in action is the work of the the Papuan Friends of Nature (Sahabat Alam Papua – SAPA) in West Papua, where the processes of mapping traditional storylines become the basis for conservation. Afterwards there are efforts carried out in order to restore customary governance, customary houses in order to become solid base for welcoming changes coming in from outside. Another example is the work of the Kerepunu people in Papua New Guinea. The Kerepunu have been working with conservation organizations to protect their sacred forests, which are believed to be home to ancestral spirits. By valuing and preserving these sacred sites, the Kerepunu are not only conserving biodiversity but also safeguarding their cultural heritage and spiritual traditions.

Promoting Spirit-Led Conservation can lead to a more holistic and effective approach to environmental preservation. By acknowledging the spiritual dimensions of conservation, we can cultivate a deeper sense of connection to the natural world and foster a greater appreciation for the interdependent relationships that sustain all life on Earth. Ultimately, incorporating spiritual beliefs and practices into conservation efforts can help us protect not only the physical environment but also the spiritual and cultural richness of our planet.