The International Society of Ethnobiology (ISE) is a global, collaborative network of individuals and organizations working to preserve vital links between human societies and the natural world.

Established in 1988, the ISE now includes researchers, academics, students, lawyers, policy-makers, and community leaders from over 70 countries. Many ISE members are affiliated with and support traditional and/or indigenous values and communities. Their collective expertise spans many disciplines including ethnobiology, conservation of biocultural diversity, intellectual property and resource rights, ecology, and applied ethics.

Despite their diversity, ISE members share a common concern and a common vision. They are concerned by the loss of traditional, local, and indigenous knowledge, and the effects of that loss on biological, cultural, and linguistic diversity. They envision harmonious existence between humankind and the natural world for the benefit of future generations, and work toward this vision by promoting dialogue on resources, knowledge, ethics, and research methods across regions, cultures, and worldviews.

The ISE is governed by a constitution and guided by a voluntary board, committee members, and a council of elders, as described by their organizational structure. The ISE’s administrative assistant handles daily administration of the society.