Question 67: HOW SHOULD A BUDDHIST BE CONSCIOUS OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION?

Answer: In the past, the world did not yet raise the issue of environmental protection. However, thanks to scientific advancements, humanity has come to realize that survival on Earth depends on many crucial factors such as clean air, clean water, clean food, biodiversity, vast forests, and more. Unfortunately, these elements are being gradually destroyed by human activities, putting our living environment in a dangerous state. Today, due to the warnings of scientists, governments around the world have incorporated global ecological protection into their national and international policies.

In Buddhism, the awareness of preserving life has existed for a very long time. Buddhist monks are required to be careful not to harm trees; if they need to use any part of a tree, they must obtain proper permission. When drinking water, monks must filter out microorganisms (the Buddha recognized the existence of microorganisms more than 2,600 years ago). Additionally, all Buddhist disciples are taught to abstain from killing living beings.

Particularly, when we cultivate boundless compassion, we can extend our love to all beings, even down to individual leaves.

With an utmost sense of altruism, a love for all living beings, and the highest level of responsibility, a Buddhist disciple always strives to protect the environment for all beings. We always actively participate in efforts to clean and preserve the environment, making this planet a beautiful place where we can all live joyfully together.

The Author

JANNA is the pen name of a certain monk who does not wish to use his real name. He is likely mature enough to understand that fame, wealth, and glory are as fleeting as morning mist.

In Pali, “JANNA” means purity, so it’s unclear which country he’s from. However, he seems to have studied the Nikaya scriptures.

Although he writes about Buddhism, he appears to desire unity with other religions to contribute to the cause of world peace. He attempts to demonstrate how differences can complement one another…