Buddhism and Christianity: Ethical Frameworks

• Buddhism and Christianity both provide ethically robust frameworks applicable to issues such as the climate crisis, though they differ in their approaches.
• Buddhism views all life as interconnected, with karma ensuring harmful actions toward nature have inevitable consequences. Buddhists believe the solution to environmental destruction lies in personal transformation and compassionate action
• Key principles in Buddhist ethical reasoning include:

Ahimsa

• Non-violence.

Mindfulness

• Encourages awareness and consideration of one's actions and their impact.

The Middle Way

• Promoting sustainable living by avoiding excess and harm.
• Environmental destruction is considered a result of human greed and ignorance.
• Buddhist practices that reflect environmental ethics include simpler living, tree ordination ceremonies, and mindful consumption.
• Christianity considers humans stewards of God's creation based on interpretations of Genesis 1:26-28. Here, humans are given dominion over the earth to care for it responsibly, not exploit it.
• Christian teachings emphasize love for one’s neighbor, extending to future generations affected by environmental degradation.
• Environmental destruction is often linked to sin, and repentance and moral responsibility drive Christian environmental ethics.
• Numerous Christian groups advocate "creation care" as a religious duty, demonstrated through sustainable policies and activism.
• Buddhism focuses on personal enlightenment and harmony with nature through spiritual discipline.
• Christianity frames environmental action as part of a divine moral obligation and social justice.
• Buddhism approaches the climate crisis through inner transformation and balance, while Christianity sees it as a moral duty to protect God’s creation and serve humanity.