First Nations have a special relationship with the earth and all living things in it. This relationship is based on a profound spiritual connection and inherent responsibility to Mother Earth that guides First Nations Peoples to practice reverence, humility, and reciprocity.

Up to 80% of the world’s biodiversity is located on the traditional lands and territories of Indigenous Peoples. This is because Indigenous Peoples have resisted unsustainable industrial practices on their lands, as well as supported the flourishing of biodiversity through the application of Indigenous Knowledge Systems.

Yet worldwide, the evidence remains clear: we face an ongoing environmental crisis.

The AFN continues to advocate in support of the leadership, resilience, and innovation of First Nations in environmental protection, and works to ensure our collective well-being and decision-making are appropriately rooted in our First Nations’ worldview.

While acknowledging diversity, a worldview has a common foundation: an understanding that we come from the land, and we are one with Mother Earth.