This panel presents evidence-based best practices from grassroots communication initiatives from Colombia, Philippines, Kenya, and Nepal that are contributing to local climate adaptation efforts by mobilizing traditional ecological knowledge (TEK), helping to manage local environmental conflicts, and helping to localize climate policy.

The Colombian case study (Grupo Comunicarte) consists of a network of 10 community radio stations working to create a culture of environmental protection in the sensitive high altitude paramo (Andean moorland) ecosystem.

The Filipino initiative (PAKISAMA) consists of the ongoing efforts of Filipino fisherfolk to halt erosion and regenerate fishing grounds through community-managed mangrove reforestation projects. 

The Kenyan initiative (FF-SPAK) focused on the promotion of sustainable forestry employing media.

The Nepalese case study (Indigenous Television) will profile the efforts of Indigenous activists to use community radio and television to promote Indigenous knowledge. 

These four initiatives have taken place in the context of the Climate Justice and Communication Rights programme of the World Association for Christian Communication (WACC) and with the support of several donors and supporters, including the Communication for Development (C4D) unit of the Food and Agriculture Agency of the United Nations (FAO).

This panel will be moderated by Lorenzo Vargas, WACC programme manager and communication for social change researcher.