Want to save the rainforest? Empower Indigenous people, says this leader

This video is part of: Centre for Nature and Climate

‘One of the most important lessons that everybody should understand is the word 'enough'.’

Indigenous cultures have a lot to teach the world, says Indonesian rainforest activist Bustar-Maitar. And the first thing is to respect nature by taking from it only what you need.

Maitar enjoyed a successful career with Greenpeace, winning ‘zero deforestation’ pledges from major multinationals. But he was drawn back to Papua to fight for forests there - and also, through his EcoNusa-foundation, to defend the rights, culture and livelihoods of Indigenous communities, from which will emerge the next generation of forest stewards.

The World Economic Forum’s Indigenous Peoples’ Knowledge and Leadership Network aims to bring generations of Indigenous knowledge and stewardship into global decision-making. Learn more.