Published Paper Details:

Focusing on realizing Buddhist conservation lessons, this paper seeks to grasp the relationship between Buddhism and ecology in contemporary Myanmar. Myanmar is rich in Theravada Buddhism and thoroughly ingrained in this philosophy and rich culture; so, its attitude toward nature is much influenced since Theravada Buddhism is practiced mostly in this country. Key principles of Buddhism are interdependence, awareness of self and surroundings, compassion, and tranquility; it helps individuals view and solve environmental issues. Buddhism has found application in many respects in Myanmar for environmental stewardship, including supporting several groups of Buddhist monks committed to their cause. Research, interviews, and field studies reveal that many Buddhists, environmentalists, and politicians in Myanmar engage in these for both religious and environmental concerns. Still, these guidelines are difficult to follow as modernizing initiatives, deforestation, and climate change concerns seem to contradict the larger integration of Buddhist ecology under current environmental policy in Myanmar. This article emphasizes how Buddhist teachings, together with the above listed limitations, could improve the surroundings of Myanmar. It ends with the assertion that, with proper application, Buddhist ecology can significantly raise awareness of environmental problems among communities, change public perceptions of conservation, and offer long-lasting solutions for major environmental crises. This study clarifies how new environmental habits might be relevant depending on religious and ideological background. It shows how relevant some of Buddhist environmental teaching ideas are for the current eco-crisis of Myanmar.