English is the main language in global research, especially in science. This common language helps share discoveries worldwide, sparking advances in critical areas like climate and biodiversity. But there are significant downsides to this dominance. A recent study from 2023 shows that non-native English speakers face extra challenges, spending more time reading and writing papers and getting rejected at higher rates compared to native speakers.
Research from Indigenous and non-English-speaking scientists is vital for environmental efforts. However, their insights often get overlooked. To tackle this issue, scientists are exploring new solutions, including collaborations across cultures and the use of artificial intelligence for translation.
Peer-reviewed journals are considered the gold standard in research, but most of the top ones are based in the U.S. and the U.K. In some fields, around 98% of research is in English. This English-centric focus raises equity concerns. Tatsuya Amano, an associate professor at the University of Queensland, highlights how this bias can cause us to lose talented researchers and vital knowledge. “We’re losing unique voices, and that’s costly,” he noted in a recent interview with Nature.
Amano’s research indicates that language barriers can hinder the application of science in decision-making. His survey of over 900 environmental scientists revealed that non-native English Ph.D. students take about 91% longer to read a paper than native speakers. They also face more revisions—12.5 times more often on average.
The gulf between Indigenous knowledge and Western science is similarly vast. Indigenous communities hold invaluable insights about their lands, but historical injustices have created distrust. Lara A. Jacobs, a researcher of Muscogee Creek Nation and Choctaw heritage, pointed out the long-standing harm caused by the dynamics between Western science and Indigenous peoples. “It’s crucial to change the relationship to a more reciprocal one,” she said, emphasizing the need for collaboration.
Research in languages other than English can uncover critical perspectives often overlooked in English literature. A 2021 study led by Amano found that over 200 bird species were documented only in non-English studies. Some organizations, like the Animal Behavior Society, are introducing multilingual programs to enhance collaboration. While AI translation tools offer hope, they also carry risks of bias. Experts urge caution in their use.
Moreover, traditional knowledge passed down orally can be essential for biodiversity restoration. Unfortunately, Indigenous groups are often sidelined in research discussions. For instance, the Miccosukee and Seminole tribes, who have traditionally cared for Florida’s wetlands, have been excluded from major restoration efforts. Jacobs pointed out, “Indigenous academics are working hard to bring more voice to tribes in scientific discussions.” Initiatives in Canada are already paving the way for better integration of Indigenous knowledge.
With climate change accelerating, there’s a pressing need to leverage diverse knowledge for solutions. Gonzalo Oviedo, a seasoned anthropologist, emphasizes the importance of dialogue. “We must create spaces where different cultures can share insights equally,” he states. This is crucial as we face global warming, which threatens not only ecosystems but also Indigenous languages and cultures.
In the meantime, significant climate-related events continue to unfold globally. Recently, Punjab, Pakistan, faced unprecedented flooding, endangering millions and threatening food supplies, as reported by The Associated Press. Meanwhile, a push to electrify school buses in the U.S. is facing challenges, with electric bus manufacturer Lion Electric filing for bankruptcy, raising questions about the future of the initiative, as detailed by Axios.
As we navigate these pressing challenges, recognizing and integrating diverse knowledge systems will be key in our quest for solutions that honor and benefit all communities.
