In this paper I shall examine the use of international law to preserve traditional indigenous knowledge and associated cultures so vital to confronting global environmental crisis. Arguably, this crisis is the result of the separation of humanity from our direct relationship with the earth-a product of an economic system committed to unlimited growth and profit maximization. We shall examine a recent order of the International Court of Justice to take up the question of whether there is a human right to a healthy, clean and sustainable environment. If such right exists this could firmly establish a legal imperative, not merely a policy choice. It could enable indigenous peoples and especially vulnerable people in island nations to save their way of life. Traditional, ecological knowledge may be useful to the entire globe.