Climate Change Adaptation through the Cultural Approach with Creativity in Ambon City of Music, Maluku

Abstract

Culture and creativity are vital resources for climate change mitigation and adaptation, as climate and culture are deeply interconnected and mutually reinforcing. While climate change threatens local traditions, knowledge systems, and cultural heritage, these same cultural assets—when preserved and empowered—can contribute significantly to environmental protection and the strengthening of climate resilience. Beyond safeguarding heritage, culture plays a transformative role in global climate action by shaping mindsets, attitudes, and behaviours, and by inspiring innovative, place-based solutions. In urban contexts, culture-driven policies and creative practices are increasingly recognised as essential for addressing climate-related risks. Place-based culture and creativity foster collective visions, enhance awareness, build local capacities, and support social integration, enabling cities to respond more effectively to climate challenges and advance sustainability transitions. These culture-based approaches are particularly relevant for city policymakers, cultural practitioners, and urban communities. The 2025 MONDIACULT Declaration underscores the urgency of integrating cultural heritage and creativity into international climate discourse, highlighting the role of traditional and indigenous knowledge and cultural innovation in climate action, especially in the face of extreme events. This paper examines Ambon City of Music as a case study, where the preservation of endemic plant species— essential for traditional musical instrument production—has led to the establishment of a “music forest.” This initiative demonstrates how cultural ecosystems can support biodiversity conservation, disaster mitigation, and cultural resilience within fragile smallisland environments.