How Indigenous Guardians Protect the Planet and Humanity

In this TED Talk, Indigenous leader Valérie Courtois explores the deep relationship between people and the land, sharing the belief that “if we take care of the land, the land takes care of us.” As climate change increasingly impacts ecosystems and communities around the world, Courtois highlights the vital role Indigenous guardians play in protecting and restoring the natural world.

The talk examines how Indigenous land stewards monitor water quality, conduct ecological research, protect biodiversity, and work to restore threatened species. Courtois emphasizes that caring for the Earth is both a practical responsibility and a transformative spiritual relationship that can help humanity build a more sustainable future.

Through stories of Indigenous leadership and environmental stewardship, the presentation invites viewers to support guardianship initiatives and to rethink humanity’s connection to the land, climate, and future generations.