About Birgejupmi
Bringing together diverse knowledge systems for sustainable Arctic coastal futures.
Project Overview
BIRGEJUPMI co-produces knowledge by bringing Indigenous, Western, and local knowledge systems into dialogue through ethical, equitable, and community-based research led by Indigenous partners. The project aims to strengthen Arctic communities, support sustainable management practices, and build resilience to environmental and social change. By creating respectful spaces for collaboration, BIRGEJUPMI upholds Indigenous self-determination and ensures research contributes meaningfully to community well-being and healthy ecosystems.
Key objectives
Document, revitalize, and integrate Indigenous knowledge–informed marine and coastal management and conservation practices.
Examine environmental, socio-economic, cultural, and demographic changes linked to climate change adaptation and mitigation measures.
Explore sea- and landscapes as living archives to inform Indigenous knowledge-rooted resource governance and strengthen local institutions and knowledge centres as dynamic community-led research spaces.
Research Approach
We document Indigenous knowledge systems related to land and seascapes across Arctic coastal regions through relational research that values storytelling, mutual visits, sharing circles, ceremony, art, duodji, design, joik, dance, and culturally rooted land- and sea-based practices. BIRGEJUPMI facilitates the sharing of Indigenous approaches and methodologies among communities in Sápmi and Kalaallit Nunaat.
What is "Birgejupmi"?
"Birgejupmi" is a North Sámi concept that describes the foundations of sustaining life and livelihood, encompassing not just material resources but also cultural values, ecological knowledge, sustainable resource use, social networks and the spiritual connection to the land and sea.
The BIRGEJUPMI project embraces this holistic understanding as a guiding principle, shaping research and collaboration around the interconnectedness of culture, environment, and well-being.
Our Approach: Two-Eyed Seeing
We are guided by Etuaptmumk, often translated as “Two-Eyed Seeing”, a principle shared by Mi’kmaq Elder Albert Marshall that draws on the strengths of both Indigenous and Western knowledge systems. This approach fosters respect, reciprocity, and co-learning, bringing diverse perspectives into dialogue to support practical solutions, resilient Arctic coastal futures, and informed responses to the challenges facing land, sea, and communities.
Research Areas
Our research explores critical themes across Sápmi and Kalaallit Nunaat, focusing on community priorities and knowledge co-production.
The Team
Our partners combine expertise in coastal areas, marine resources, Indigenous knowledge, and co-creation, with a shared commitment to Indigenous Arctic futures.