Socio-environmental effects of digitizing traditional crafts for Indigenous small-numbered peoples and local communities, and approaches to joint monitoring of territories of traditional nature use

Abstract

The study assesses the socio-environmental effects of the digitization of traditional crafts of Indigenous small-numbered peoples and local communities and substantiates the architecture of joint monitoring of territories of traditional nature use (TTNUs) as a balance between technological accessibility, ecological non-intrusiveness, and informational sovereignty of communities. The empirical base includes legal and content analysis of more than 180 sources, field studies in Yamal-Nenets and Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrugs and the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) in 2019–2023 (57 semi-structured interviews with traditional knowledge holders, 25 expert interviews, participant observation), as well as analysis of remote sensing data (Sentinel-2, Landsat-8), UAV and GIS data (QGIS/ArcGIS). To compare the effects, four data management models were simulated: corporate, state, community-based, and hybrid co-management, evaluated by technical, economic, social, and environmental indicators using correlation-regression and multi-criteria analysis (R, Statistica) and participatory design (Agile). A pronounced digital divide was identified (85% broadband availability on average in Russia versus 30–35% in remote settlements) amid an exponential increase in point-based tools (use of satellite/tracker communication grew by over 70% in five years; UAV application increased by ≥15% annually). Comparative technological analysis revealed the absence of a universal solution and the advantage of a hybrid configuration: strategic satellite overview, focused UAV reconnaissance, and on-the-ground data collection via mobile applications. Field pilots demonstrate heterogeneous effects: increased income from traditional crafts (e.g., +12.4% in Yamal-Nenets region), reduced poaching (up to −25.3% in Khanty-Mansi region), and time savings in patrolling (6–9 person-hours per week), with the trust index depending on elder participation and transparency of data access. Correlation analysis revealed biodiversity sensitivity to UAV activity (r≈−0.68) and a positive link between digital engagement and pasture restoration (r≈−0.72), justifying seasonally adaptive regulations. The hybrid co-management model increases community control over data to about 0.75 with moderate cost growth and reduces environmental load (for instance, a ~40% reduction in UAV flights due to preliminary satellite screening), providing a replicable framework for scaling.