Environmental Knowledge of the Uros People of Lake Titicaca, Puno (Peru)

Gómez-Arteta I.; Escobar-Mamani F. · Historia Ambiental Latinoamericana y Caribena (2022) · DOI: 10.32991/2237-2717.2022v12i1.p270-297

Resumen

Understanding the environmental and traditional knowledge practiced by indigenous peoples is a priority in order to contribute to sustainable development. The study explored environmental knowledge budgets and mechanisms for the rational use and conservation of biodiversity of the inhabitants of the floating islands of the Uros, located in Puno's Lake Titicaca bay (Peru). Information was collected through surveys and in-depth interviews about the knowledge, attitudes and expectations of the Uros people, considering two axes: rational use of resources and conservation of the lake's natural environment. The results show that the coexistence of the Uros and the lake is governed by the principles of harmony and reciprocity, under the concept of unity; 88% of those surveyed maintain that the traditional practices of caring for aquatic spaces have allowed them to live for generations; therefore, maintaining the ecological balance is fundamental to continue living together in harmony. It concludes that the lake, for the Uros, is a living entity that provides resources and requires care and conservation. This conception should be considered in the process of formulating public policies for the rational use and conservation of the biological and cultural diversity of the peoples. © Unisa Press 2022.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional del Altiplano