We also note the limitations of the article, emphasizing that the study only captures the perspectives of largely southern‐based, nonindigenous academic researchers. The issues profiled here are thus not definitive and are by no means exhaustive, but nevertheless represent the beginning of a larger conversation on CBA—one which needs to involve communities, local and regional governments, indigenous organizations, researchers, funders, and decision makers—deciding if, when, where, and how CBA has a role in emerging adaptation research. Indeed, this article can be viewed as part of the CBA process itself, involving colearning and continuous critical reflection to improve how we engage and interact with indigenous communities, knowledge systems, and cultural norms, epistemologies, and ontologies. The importance of such reflection is increasingly being recognized in an environmental change context in general and for adaptation in particular, and is essential for underpinning effective and ethical research.