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The document argues that Indigenous languages and toponyms are essential tools for environmental stewardship and climate action. Using the Ahousaht First Nation as a case study, it demonstrates how traditional place names provide critical ecological and historical data—such as former salmon spawning grounds or historical water levels—that can guide restoration efforts and infrastructure planning. The text highlights the vulnerability of coastal British Columbia to sea-level rise and extreme weather, advocating for the official recognition of Indigenous toponyms and increased financial support for community-led stewardship programs to enhance climate resilience.

The document explores the Ahousaht Land Use Vision, demonstrating how Indigenous place names provide critical biological and cultural data for climate adaptation. It argues that preserving Indigenous languages is essential for effective stewardship and recommends that Canadian governments streamline the process for restoring official Indigenous place names to enhance climate risk awareness and ecological restoration.