Thailand is a mostly Buddhist country, and as a result has huge respect for the environment. One of the world’s biggest countries, Thailand borders many countries including Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam and India.
It’s a beautiful country with a stunning coastline, and the capital city of Bangkok is a popular tourist attraction. However the massive urban growth combined with little thought to proper urban planning means traffic congestion is high, and the city also suffers from bad air pollution.
Despite its many beautiful animals and endangered species, Thailand does not rank well on the Environmental Performance Index.
Poaching for ivory, meat and hides has led many species to be at risk (elephant populations have fallen from 100,000 in 1850 to around 2000 with many mistreated for the tourist trade).
Other animals poached include leopards and critically endangered tigers. A bit like China, some markets even sell live endangered species, with no regards to welfare.
Buddhism & Environmental Awareness
Buddhism is not so much a religion, but more a way of life. Buddha was a rich prince who when he went outside and saw the real world, made it a mission to find the end to suffering – which he eventually found, under a tree!
But the book The Great Compassion by the wonderful late writer Norm Phelps writes that many Buddhist nations and even monasteries don’t practice what they preach. But most do, and the simple life of a Buddhist is something to aspire to.
In Thailand, many Buddhist temples serve as sanctuaries for wildlife, embodying a respect for nature that is sacred and integral to spiritual practice.
Quakers are often called ‘western Buddhists’ as their philosophy is similar, but without all the robes and chanting!
If you despair of modern politics on both sides of the pond (thousands of pounds worth of gifts for fashion and spectacles, Presidents talking of climate change and burning fuel in private jets to go shake hands with dictators etc), you’ll likely love Quakers!
The religion actually was a breakaway from the Church of England, by people dismayed at the hypocrisy (as a sidenote, the Church of England receives a huge amount of income, yet small Christian charities are struggling to feed the hungry and help homeless people). Things don’t move fast.
If you’re inspired by the Buddhist philosophy in Thailand, consider a subscription to Tricycle magazine. This is the independent voice of Buddhism.
Sustainable Practices Rooted in Thai Culture
Thailand has long embraced organic farming, a practice that respects the natural balance of ecosystems. Farmers use traditional methods like crop rotation and natural pest management, reducing reliance on chemical inputs.
This not only protects the environment but also improves soil health and crop quality. Such practices mirror the broader Thai philosophy of working with, rather than against, nature. Water is a precious resource, and traditional Thai water management practices reflect a deep respect for this vital element. The ancient “Khlong” system of canals not only supports irrigation but also promotes community connectivity.
Strategies like rainwater harvesting and maintaining natural wetlands demonstrate a sustainable approach to water use, balancing human needs with environmental preservation.
Across Thailand, communities are taking proactive steps to protect their local environments. Community forests and conservation groups work together to manage natural resources, preserving biodiversity and ensuring sustainability.
These initiatives empower local people to take responsibility for their surroundings, creating a strong sense of ownership and accountability.
