Traditional Agricultural Practices of the Lepcha Community in the Eastern Himalayas: Pathways Toward Climate Resilience and Sustainability
摘要
We analyze the sustainable practices of the Lepchas, an indigenous community in the eastern Himalayas, who have developed agricultural methods that support ecological balance and climate resilience. These traditional practices are increasingly at risk due to multiple factors. By examining the Lepcha’s traditional agricultural practices, we explore their role in promoting ecological sustainability and resilience amid climate change, focusing on two aspects: traditional practices and the challenges and opportunities for their continuation. The research is based on a six-month field study conducted between August 2024 and January 2025, using questionnaires, in-depth interviews, participant observation, and secondary literature. We reveal that while Lepcha agricultural traditions emphasize biodiversity conservation, soil fertility management, and water resource efficiency, their continuation is threatened by declining interest among younger generations, lifestyle changes, cost-ineffective practices, and government policies. We emphasize the importance of integrating ecological knowledge into broader frameworks for climate resilience and sustainability, thereby improving the regional ecological and socio-economic well-being of the Lepcha community.