Indigenous Knowledge Earns Global Recognition in ‘Nobel Prize for the Environment’
2025 Tyler Prize winner’s research highlights the vital role of Indigenous peoples and local communities in conservation efforts
The 2025 Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement has recognized the critical role of Indigenous knowledge in biodiversity conservation, awarding environmental anthropologist Eduardo Brondizio for his decades of research on Indigenous land stewardship and climate resilience.
Brondizio, a professor at Indiana University and a Faculty Associate in the university’s Native Studies Program, has spent nearly 40 years studying how Indigenous governance shapes sustainable landscapes, particularly in the Amazon. His research has demonstrated that Indigenous-led conservation efforts are key to protecting ecosystems from deforestation, habitat loss, and climate change impacts.
As a co-chair of the 2019 Global Assessment Report by the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), Brondizio played a major role in documenting Indigenous communities’ contributions to environmental sustainability. His work has influenced global policy discussions, reinforcing that Indigenous land management is not only effective but essential in combating biodiversity loss.
The Tyler Prize, often referred to as the "Nobel Prize for the Environment," is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to environmental science and policy.
Brondizio’s recognition comes as tribal nations across the U.S. continue to advocate for sovereignty over land and natural resources, asserting Indigenous leadership in environmental governance. His research aligns with the growing global acknowledgment that Indigenous perspectives are necessary for meaningful climate action.
Brondizio shares the 2025 Tyler Prize with Argentinian ecologist Sandra Díaz, whose research focuses on plant biodiversity. They will be honored at a ceremony in Los Angeles on April 10, 2025, where they will receive a gold medallion and share a $250,000 prize to further their research.
For more details, visit the Tyler Prize’s official website.
Sharing Is Caring
This article is not included in our Story Share & Care selection.
The content may only be reproduced with permission from the Indigenous Media Freedom Alliance. Please see our content sharing guidelines.
© Buffalo's Fire. All rights reserved.
Help us keep the fire burning, make a donation to Buffalo’s Fire
For everyone who cares about transparency in Native affairs: We exist to illuminate tribal government. Our work bridges the gap left by tribal-controlled media and non-Native, extractive journalism, providing the insights necessary for truly informed decision-making and a better quality of life. Because the consequences of restricted press freedom affect our communities every day, our trauma-informed reporting is rooted in a deep, firsthand expertise.
Every gift helps keep the fire burning. A monthly contribution makes the biggest impact. Cancel anytime.
Respect The Fire
At Buffalo's Fire, we value constructive dialogue that builds an informed Indian Country. To keep this space healthy, moderators will remove:
- Personal attacks, harassment, or hate speech
- Spam, misinformation, or unsolicited promotion
- Off-topic rants and excessive shouting (All Caps)
Let’s keep the fire burning with respect.