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Indigenizing fungal biotechnology for planetary health: an opinion paper

Summary

This paper proposes a framework for using fungi in sustainable ways that respects Indigenous Peoples’ knowledge and rights. Rather than large corporations controlling fungal biotechnology, the authors suggest local communities should develop their own fungal products using local species and waste materials. By combining traditional Indigenous practices with modern biotechnology and digital tools, communities can grow food, medicines, and materials while protecting fungal biodiversity and sharing in the economic benefits.

Background

Fungi are critical for planetary health, interconnecting ecosystems through symbiosis and soil-making abilities. Indigenous Peoples have long practiced mycophilic frameworks like Kallamp that recognize fungi as kin with intrinsic value. Contemporary fungal biotechnologies can advance conservation and applied mycology while supporting Indigenous sovereignty and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

Objective

To propose the Applied and Conservation Mycology Framework (ACMF) that aligns fungal biotechnology with Indigenous Knowledge Systems through Indigenous Data Sovereignty and Governance. To demonstrate how decentralized fungal biotechnology practices can address all 23 targets of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework while supporting Indigenous Peoples’ rights and planetary health.

Results

The ACMF demonstrates that applied mycology can support at least eleven KM-GBF Targets through food production, ecosystem remediation, mycelium materials, and mycoforestry. Conservation mycology coupled with Indigenous-led governance addresses biodiversity loss and digital sequence information governance. BioKulture Systems Design enables polycentric governance with non-human community contributors.

Conclusion

Decentralized applied and conservation mycology guided by Indigenous Peoples can achieve all 23 KM-GBF Targets while advancing Indigenous sovereignty, benefit-sharing, and planetary health. Success requires supporting Indigenous governance, sustainable technologies, Rights of Nature frameworks, and addressing challenges in biosecurity and environmental impacts. The ACMF offers possibilities for equitable Indigenous fungal futures and more-than-human enfranchisement.
  • Published in:Fungal Biology and Biotechnology,
  • Study Type:Opinion Paper,
  • Source: 10.1186/s40694-025-00200-0, PMID: 40457400
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