Consumerism and Environmental Crisis in Indian Philosophical Perspective

Until now, humans have extracted resources from the environment solely for their own consumption, without considering other environmental elements or the environment's overall health. Humans have utilised their intellect to exploit natural resources for personal comfort and pleasure, disregarding the future. Factors such as the excessive rise in daily consumption within consumerist societies, urbanisation, development, deforestation for housing, and industrialisation—which lead to toxic gas emissions and global warming—are the primary causes of environmental degradation. At its core, consumerism advocates for unrestrained consumption. Various discourses in Indian philosophy suggest ways to mitigate environmental degradation, as Indian philosophy does not subscribe to consumerism. It posits that if one performs actions without attachment to the fruits of consumption—acting selflessly—one is not bound by the consequences, whether good or bad. In Indian philosophy, Kama (desire) or consumption is regarded as a major obstacle to attaining liberation. Renunciation, not consumption, is the guiding principle of Indian philosophy. One should remain content with only what is necessary for sustenance. Excessive consumption can have profoundly detrimental consequences for future generations. Human desires are virtually limitless, and people often seek to fulfil them by exploiting natural resources, resulting in environmental degradation and abuse. This unsustainable consumerist mindset has raised serious concerns about environmental sustainability and the ability of future generations to meet their needs. If unchecked, such patterns of consumption may threaten the quality of life and even the survival of generations to come.