Translating Traditional Ecological Knowledge into a Design Framework for Sustainable Resource Management: A Case Study of the Ruza System of Nagaland, India

Warong Wonglangka, Ampika Amloy, Pandin Ounchanum, Supakul Ruangwitthayanusorn, Thunyaporn Thoopthimthean and Aranya Siriphon ()
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Warong Wonglangka: Faculty of Architecture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Ampika Amloy: Faculty of Architecture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Pandin Ounchanum: Faculty of Architecture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Supakul Ruangwitthayanusorn: Faculty of Architecture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Thunyaporn Thoopthimthean: Department of Management Science and Engineering, Faculty of Management and Economic, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
Aranya Siriphon: Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

Resources, 2025, vol. 14, issue 9, 1-21

Abstract: The integration of traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) into contemporary landscape planning is hampered by a lack of methodological frameworks that can translate site-specific practices into generalizable design principles. This study addresses this gap by developing and applying an integrated analytical framework to decode the resilient Ruza farming system in Nagaland, India. Employing a mixed-methods approach that triangulates qualitative data (ethnographic observation, semi-structured interviews) with spatial analysis (drone-based orthomosaics), this research moves beyond mere description to extract a set of transferable socio-ecological design principles. The findings identify four core principles such as vertical integration, gravity-fed resource flow, closed-loop resource cycling, and participatory governance, that underpin the system’s functionality. By demonstrating a clear methodological pathway from fieldwork to framework, this research contributes a replicable “methodological bridge” for landscape architects and planners. While derived from a single case study, the framework offers a robust approach for applying the logic of TEK to create climate-resilient and culturally grounded designs in diverse contexts.

Keywords: traditional ecological knowledge (TEK); Ruza farming system; climate resilience; agroecology; rural landscape sustainability (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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