Islam Perspective
“Verily it is We Who gave you a sustainable authority on earth, and provided you therein with means for
the fulfilment of your life; small are the thanks that you give!” The Quran (7:10)
“On earth will be your sustainable dwelling-place and your means of livelihood – for a time.” The Quran (2:36)
Buddhist Perspective
The concept of sustainable development proclaims reservation of consumption and profits for present and
future generations, and protection of nature and ecosystems from threats, especially to minimize the
depletion of non-renewable resources. Sustainable development also involves changing personal attitudes
and behaviors that provide a framework for integrating development and conservation.
Buddhists responded in 2009 by developing A Buddhist Declaration on Climate Change, which was updated in 2015, and signed by HH The 14th Dalai Lama, Zen Master Thích Nhất Hạnh, HH The 17th Karmapa, and most Buddhist leaders from various countries.
Among others, the Declaration states that individuals must adopt behaviors that increase everyday ecological awareness and reduce our “carbon footprint”. We also need to retrofit and insulate our homes and workplaces for energy efficiency; lower thermostats in winter and raise them in summer; use high efficiency light bulbs and appliances; turn off unused electrical appliances; recycle; drive the most fuel-efficient cars possible, and reduce meat consumption in favor of a healthy, environmentally-friendly plant-based diet.