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Abstract
The semi-autonomous Territory of Nunavut in Arctic Canada requires a policy that induces economic diversification and equity for the Inuit population. Though mining continues as the primary economic activity, a focus on preserving Inuit wilderness skills would support cultural continuity and diversification of the Nunavut economy. Traditional Inuit life ways draw no line between culture and the environment. Guiding travelers in the Arctic provides a modest income and cultural integrity. Learning stewardship from northern peoples, we can restore our environment that technological culture has so compromised. To ensure continuity of all life on this planet, the developed world can learn from the cultural ways of peoples who have remained as one with the land. In the Arctic, travelers are guests, de facto students; and the Inuit, as hosts, are our teachers.
Parent Publication
Keywords
wilderness,
biodiversity,
protected areas,
economics,
subsistence,
tourism,
traditional knowledge,
community involvement,
policy,
stewardship,
education,
spiritual values
Citation
Richard, Wilfred E. 2007. Arctic and wilderness travel-hosts and guests: The territory of Nunavut, Canada. In: Watson, Alan; Sproull, Janet; Dean, Liese, comps. Science and stewardship to protect and sustain wilderness values: Eighth World Wilderness Congress symposium; September 30-October 6, 2005; Anchorage, AK. Proceedings RMRS-P-49. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 152-161
