Traditional Economy
Nunavut's traditional economy is based on harvesting animals, plants and fish. These economic activities have sustained Inuit for thousands of years, and continue to support sustainable livelihoods for many of our people, particularly in our smaller communities.
Harvesting, of course, has economic value as a means of food production, and it provides an opportunity for people to participate in the economic life of their community. The health benefits of country food is also a major benefit of harvesting, as is the cultural and social importance of hunting in an individual's personal development.
Traditional harvesting is based on the use of knowledge - Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit - for productive purposes. This knowledge of the land can be applied to new economic opportunities - eco-tourism, environmental monitoring, resource management, security, prospecting for minerals, even film making. Harvesting can help build the foundation for economic growth in other sectors.