Buddhist monks and environmental issues in Thailand

Abstract

This thesis looks at the role of Buddhist monks engaged in environmental work in Thailand. Since the 1960’s, Thailand has experienced a period of rapid economic growth. Focus on economic development has often occurred without sufficient consideration for the environment, this has resulted in environmental degradation in many parts of the country. Deforestation, has for example taken place at an alarming rate. Unsustainable agricultural practices have also contributed to the country’s current environmental problems. This study examines three cases, where Buddhist monks work to promote sustainable development and environmental conservation in different parts of Thailand. Previous studies on the Buddhist environmental movement have focused on the philosophical aspect of Buddhist environmentalism, this study aim to put focus on the practical aspect of work conducted by the monks. Anthropological approaches are employed as major instruments for data collection and analyzes. The monk’s environmental work is primarily based on trying to change the local people’s perception of the environment and their usage of natural resources. This is mainly done by interconnecting Buddhism with an environmental ethic. The monks are actively working to promote sustainable economic activity such as organic farming and collective management of natural resources. The study aims to contribute to the understanding of how faith-based organizations promote sustainable development and environmental conservation by identifying their strategies, vision and how they operate.