People at GCK Project

Nazune Menka

Graduate Student, ASU

Nazune is currently working on her M.S. thesis on Environmental Technology Management.  She is originally from Anchorage, Alaska and attended North Carolina State University for undergrad in Communications.
 

Thesis Abstract:
Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) is a valid scientific tool that many academic research institutions have used to initiate scientific and academic studies.  In particular the issue of climate change in the Arctic, where the State of Alaska resides, has illustrated that TEK is an essential tool and has not only been used to initiate research studies but has become “The National Threat Advisory” for climate change and the failing ecosystems of the planet. Research is showing a long list of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that have infested the land, animals and Alaska Native communities. While there is little research as to the effects of these chemicals on human health there is information on health effects being compiled from animal species that will help us understand the possible effects on humans.  The proposed research will look at what POP animal and human studies have been conducted and find out what initiated the research.  Many Alaska Native communities are recognizing changes in their environment.  The research will use narrative and case study methods to look at what these communities do with the information they accumulate and how it has worked within the Western Science framework to initiate scientific research.