The article "Perspectives on Climate Change Impact on Intangible Cultural Heritage: The Case of Traditional Lamprey Fishing in Latvia" by Sandis Laime, Kitija Balcare, Elīna Gailīte, Rita Grīnvalde, and Anita Vaivade, published in the Anthropological Journal of European Cultures, explores the intersection of climate change and intangible cultural heritage (ICH) through the lens of traditional lamprey fishing in Carnikava, Latvia. 

Summary of the Article

Introduction

The authors highlight the vulnerability of ICH to climate change, emphasizing that traditions dependent on local resources and environmental conditions are particularly at risk. The study focuses on the lamprey fishing tradition in Carnikava, a village known for its centuries-old fishing practices.

Methodology

The research employs a case study approach, utilizing in-depth semi-structured focus group interviews with tradition-bearers, local community members, scientists, and government representatives. Secondary data collection included literature reviews, media monitoring, and analysis of policy documents.

Findings

The study identifies several climate change impacts on lamprey fishing:

1. Loss of Seasonal Sea Ice: Warmer winters have reduced sea ice, allowing grey seals to remain in the Gulf of Riga year-round, which disrupts fishing activities.
2. Changed Frost/Thaw Cycles: Frequent winter thaws and temperature fluctuations hinder the setting of traps during peak fishing seasons.
3. Hydrological Changes: Altered river flow patterns due to climate change affect lamprey migration and spawning, leading to population declines.
4. Rising Water Temperatures: Increased temperatures impact lamprey physiology and reproductive success.

The authors argue that these changes threaten both the lamprey population and the sustainability of the fishing tradition. They call for integrated conservation strategies that address both biological and cultural preservation.

Connection to Scholarly Literature

The article contributes to the growing body of research on the impact of climate change on cultural heritage. Previous studies have highlighted the dual threats of climate change to both tangible and intangible heritage (European Parliament, 2024; Fatorić & Seekamp, 2017). The findings align with the broader literature on the need for adaptive strategies to mitigate these impacts (Kim, 2011; Higgins, 2022).

Climate Change and Intangible Cultural Heritage

The vulnerability of ICH to climate change has been increasingly recognized in recent years. For instance, Kim (2011) discusses how climate change necessitates the adaptation of cultural practices to ensure their survival. Similarly, Higgins (2022) emphasizes the importance of integrating climate change considerations into cultural heritage policies.

Traditional Ecological Knowledge

The study also resonates with literature on traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) and its role in climate adaptation. TEK, which encompasses the skills and knowledge of local communities, is crucial for developing sustainable adaptation strategies (Goswami, 2015). The lamprey fishing tradition in Carnikava exemplifies how TEK can be both a resource and a vulnerability in the face of climate change.

Policy Implications

The article underscores the need for policy frameworks that support both environmental and cultural sustainability. This aligns with the European Union's approach to integrating cultural heritage into climate adaptation policies (European Union, 2022). The authors' call for comprehensive conservation strategies reflects the interdisciplinary nature of effective climate adaptation.

Conclusion

The article by Laime et al. provides a valuable case study on the intersection of climate change and ICH, highlighting the specific challenges faced by the lamprey fishing tradition in Carnikava. By connecting these findings to broader scholarly literature, it becomes clear that preserving ICH in the face of climate change requires integrated, adaptive strategies that consider both ecological and cultural dimensions.

References

• European Parliament. (2024). The impact of climate change on cultural heritage. Retrieved from European Parliament
• Fatorić, S., & Seekamp, E. (2017). Are cultural heritage and resources threatened by climate change? A systematic literature review. Climatic Change, 142(3), 227-254. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10584-017-1929-9
• Goswami, R. (2015). How intangible cultural heritage adapts to a changing world. World Heritage, 77, 30-36. https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000243048
• Higgins, N. (2022). Changing climate; changing life – Climate change and indigenous intangible cultural heritage. Laws, 11(3), 47. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/laws11030047
• Kim, H.-E. (2011). Changing climate, changing culture: Adding the climate change dimension to the protection of intangible cultural heritage. International Journal of Cultural Property, 18(3), 259-290. https://doi.org/10.1017/S094073911100021X
• Laime, S., Balcare, K., Gailīte, E., Grīnvalde, R., & Vaivade, A. (2024). Perspectives on climate change impact on intangible cultural heritage: The case of traditional lamprey fishing in Latvia. Anthropological Journal of European Cultures, 33(1), 26-36. https://doi.org/10.3167/ajec.2024.330104

Prompted, written and edited by Pablo Markin. Parts of the initial draft have been generated using Copilot, Microsoft (November 29, 2024).