Buddhist and Deep Ecological approaches as a new path to Environmental Sustainability

Abstract: Buddhism and Deep Ecology can be considered as the spiritual dimensions of the environment. Buddha’s teachings are related to Deep Ecology which aims at protecting natural forests and the environment. They are considered as oneness, awareness, compassion, loving, kindness towards all living beings. Both are approached on a holistic outlook and consciousness. Buddhism and Deep Ecology are basically concerned with change. Deep Ecology fosters a moral awareness of the kinship of the natural environment. It is concerned with the survival and self-renewal of all living beings. Deep Ecology reflects an awareness and concern about the intrinsic value of all living beings and the integrity of their natural home, along with a sense of the limits of the human role in the scheme of things. The awareness and concern of Deep Ecology towards nature offers new approach on values which reflect oneness of all life. This paper explores the interaction of Deep Ecology with Buddhist principles and ethics proposing an awareness of nature as a new path to sustainable future which greatly contributes to one’s understanding imagination, and reinvigoration for activism and education.