Traditional Ecological Knowledge in Conservation Practices: An Intervention Study in Ethiopia

Traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) has been recognised as an important resource for environmental conservation in many parts of the world. In Ethiopia, TEK plays a significant role in managing natural resources sustainably and conserving biodiversity. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative data collection through surveys with qualitative interviews to gather information from local communities and experts. Geographical Information Systems (GIS) were used to map traditional ecological knowledge and compare it with current conservation maps. The findings indicate that TEK is particularly valuable in identifying specific species habitats and managing water resources, contributing to a 20% increase in the accuracy of biodiversity mapping compared to conventional methods. Community participation increased by 35%, leading to more sustainable land management practices. This study demonstrates the potential for integrating TEK into conservation strategies, enhancing both ecological outcomes and community engagement. Policy makers should prioritise the recognition and integration of TEK in biodiversity conservation plans. Communities should be supported to document and share their traditional knowledge effectively. The empirical specification follows $Y=\beta_0+\beta^\top X+\varepsilon$, and inference is reported with uncertainty-aware statistical criteria.