[Rooms 105 & 106] Paul Paton – Restoring and empowering First People's knowledge and practice to heal Country
Drawing on 65,000+ years of profound ecological wisdom and stewardship of the land, this keynote will showcase the indispensable role of First People’s in confronting the challenges of climate change. First Nations communities have been grappling with the impacts of environmental degradation for generations. Yet, their resilience, adaptive strategies, and sustainable practices have often been overlooked. This keynote seeks to illuminate the invaluable knowledge and contributions that First Nations leaders bring to the global climate discourse. It will also aim to foster a greater appreciation for the essential role of Indigenous knowledges in climate action, highlighting the importance of empowering and supporting their initiatives. By recognising and valuing their wisdom, we can work towards building a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future for all. Paul Paton, CEO of the Federation of Victorian Traditional Owner Corporations and Steering Committee Member of the First Nations Clean Energy Network