New research released today emphasizes that Indigenous leadership is crucial for Canada's climate and energy transition. The Canadian Climate Institute and the Centre for Indigenous Environmental Resources (CIER) have unveiled four original case studies as part of the sixth annual Indigenous Perspectives program. These studies, authored by First Nations and Métis scholars, explore topics ranging from electricity grid interconnection to major resource development projects.
Indigenous Perspectives Program
Now in its sixth year, the Indigenous Perspectives program profiles Indigenous expertise and solutions in climate policy. The program is a collaborative effort between the Canadian Climate Institute and CIER, aiming to amplify Indigenous-led climate research grounded in Indigenous knowledge systems and reciprocal relationships with lands, waters, and future generations.
This year's case studies include:
- Indigenous-owned electricity transmission projects: Examining how these projects can benefit Indigenous communities and accelerate the clean energy transition across Canada. Authors: Frank Busch, Joel Krupa, Kwatuuma Cole Sayers, and Tamara Krawchenko.
- Gitanyow Nation's tool: A tool using Indigenous Laws and science to evaluate climate impacts and assert authority over proposed development projects. Authors: Tara Marsden/Naxginkw and Chris Joseph.
- Portrayal of Indigenous rights holders: How corporate sustainability and climate filings influence decision-making by investors, policymakers, and the public. Author: Raylene Whitford.
- Métis harvesting knowledge: Disruption of traditional knowledge and the importance of land relationships for climate data. Author: Conor Kerr.
Online Roundtables
Case study authors will discuss their work in two online roundtables on June 22 and 23. The first roundtable focuses on Indigenous leadership in the energy transition, featuring Raylene Whitford, Frank Busch, and Kwatuuma Cole Sayers. The second roundtable addresses Indigenous climate policy beyond Western metrics, with Tara Marsden/Naxginkw and Conor Kerr. Both events include moderated discussions and audience Q&A, and will be recorded.
Registration and Access
Interested participants can register online to attend the 2026 Indigenous Perspectives roundtables and access this year's case studies. The program, running since 2020, selects case studies through a competitive application process, with research funding and mentorship provided by the presenting organizations. Participants retain full ownership of their research and conclusions.
