New report captures ways to better collaborate across knowledge systems
The Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions (PICS) has released a new report, What We Heard: Bridging Knowledges for Climate Action, capturing insights from a series of workshops held in collaboration with the First Nations Leadership Council (FNLC) earlier this year.
Lasting climate solutions depend on collaboration — not only across institutions and sectors, but across knowledge systems. First Nations in B.C. have been stewards of these lands and waters since time immemorial and continue to lead and offer guidance on climate planning and action.
Reflecting on how to strengthen alignment between university research and First Nations climate priorities, as well as best practices for codesigned research was the focus of a series of discussions between late May to early June 2025. PICS and the FNLC hosted workshops at each of PICS’ network universities (UVic, UBC, SFU, and UNBC), bringing together researchers, students, and other academic professionals.
Photos from university workshops at UBC, SFU, and UNBC. Credit: PICS staff
Guided by the commitments outlined in the Relationship Protocol between PICS and FNLC, these sessions created space for learning and dialogue about the BC First Nations Climate Strategy and Action Plan (BCFNCS) and the Action Plan for Disaster Risk Reduction by First Nations in BC (APDRR). Participants examined how their research aligns with these First Nations-led strategies and identified intersections and opportunities for collaboration. They also reflected on how to do “research in a good way,” discussing humility, co-design, and examples of successful community partnerships.
Several key themes emerged across the workshops. Participants emphasized the importance of how research is carried out; the value of time taken for relationships, reciprocity, and accountability, as well as ensuring research outputs are accessible, culturally relevant, and useful. Participants also discussed best practices around collaborative infrastructure and necessary institutional supports.
The What We Heard report captures insights from these workshops and outlines next steps. Among them is the launch of the PICS Circle of Practice series, set to begin in early 2026. These online gatherings will bring together researchers, students, Indigenous scholars, and community leaders to share tools, mentorship, and best practices for collaborative, community-driven research.
By fostering continuity beyond one-time workshops, the Circle of Practice aims to break down silos, strengthen trust, and support a climate research network that will help to advance the BC First Nations Climate Strategy and Action Plan.
