Ecological Responsibility in Buddhist Thought

Buddhism teaches that the natural world should not be viewed merely as a resource to be exploited; rather, it should be regarded as a sacred entity connected to the cosmic order and spiritual life. It emphasizes to practice genuine environmental stewardship with all beings and advocates ecological responsibility through the core values of compassion, non-violence, moderation and a deep respect for all lives. In this regard, Buddha presents some important principles that form the core of Buddhist ecological responsibility. These principles are Cittena Niyyati Loko (the world is led by the human mind), Paticcasamuppada (Dependent-co- arising), Samma Ajiva (Right Livelihood) and Majjhima Patipada (the Middle Path). Buddhism shows a path of life that is designed to get rid of suffering. This cannot be achieved simply by trying to manipulate the external world. Instead, true progress comes from nurturing the right mindset towards both our physical surroundings and our social environment. Thus, Buddhism moulds a person’s character in order that one may achieve not only happiness here and hereafter, but also the ultimate bliss of Nirvana; a person in the Buddha’s day carefully used any things without any waste.