In a world full of challenges, environmental protection and sustainable development are no longer issues solely for governments and businesses—they are actions that everyone should take part in. As a representative of Chinese Buddhism, Abbot Shi Yongxin of the Shaolin Temple attended COP29, delivering a simple yet profound message about the future of our planet: every individual has the power—and the responsibility—to start making changes in their own lifestyle to protect our shared home.
In an exclusive interview with《The Icons》, Abbot Shi Yongxin remarked: “The Earth is like a patient, and each of us is its doctor. We have a responsibility to take care of her.”
Over the past century, rapid industrialization and technological advancements have significantly extended human life expectancy, yet they have also led to serious environmental issues, such as global warming and rising sea levels. Faced with these challenges, the Abbot emphasizes the importance of collective responsibility: “We must unite in our efforts and take environmental protection seriously. This is the responsibility of every individual. In Buddhism, we advocate not only love and kindness toward people but also respect and care for nature. As the saying goes, ‘All sentient beings possess Buddha-nature,’ and ‘Both the sentient and insentient can achieve enlightenment.”
Buddhism and the Low-Carbon Way of Life
For centuries, Shaolin Temple has advocated for a simple and eco-friendly lifestyle, which is not only part of Buddhist practice but also a key to solving modern environmental issues. Abbot Shi Yongxin explained that Shaolin monks continue to uphold a traditional low-carbon lifestyle that has remained unchanged for over a thousand years. These practices, deeply rooted in wisdom, include vegetarianism, frugality, and the pursuit of inner peace and happiness: “Our way of life is very traditional. Shaolin monks adhere to a vegetarian diet, which not only benefits personal health but also has a positive impact on environmental protection.”
This low-carbon lifestyle is not exclusive to monks—it can serve as an inspiration for modern society. Abbot Shi Yongxin pointed out that if individuals adopted simple changes in their daily lives, such as conserving resources and reducing material consumption, these small actions would have a profound impact on the planet’s sustainability: “Buddhism emphasizes spiritual fulfillment rather than material abundance. By living with moderation and simplicity, we can help extend the lifespan of the Earth.”
The Wisdom of Shaolin’s Low-Carbon Philosophy
When discussing Buddhism’s role in sustainable development, Abbot Shi Yongxin stressed that Buddhism is not just a religion—it is a philosophy of life, one that teaches people how to coexist harmoniously with nature. He highlighted: “Buddhism is a way of life that provides wisdom for living in harmony with nature. Shaolin Temple’s low-carbon philosophy, spirit of frugality, and deep respect for the environment are all meaningful contributions to global sustainability.”
Especially at a significant event like COP29, Buddhism’s perspective can serve as a wake-up call, encouraging more people to pay attention to environmental issues.
During the discussions at COP29, Abbot Shi Yongxin expressed hope that Buddhist wisdom could help more people understand the urgency of environmental protection and take real action. He urged not only monks but also the general public to embrace Buddhist low-carbon living—not just for their own well-being but for the future of the planet: “Addressing environmental issues is just as crucial as solving medical crises. We must act together. Every summit like this is an opportunity to awaken people’s sense of responsibility. We hope that more individuals will recognize the urgency of environmental protection and take meaningful action.”
Buddhism and Global Environmental Efforts
Abbot Shi Yongxin firmly believes that the future of the Earth depends on the choices we make today. The lifestyle practiced at Shaolin Temple serves as an inspiration for tackling environmental challenges. Whether it is through adopting a vegetarian diet, conserving resources, or seeking fulfillment through spiritual rather than material wealth, these seemingly simple choices can significantly contribute to the planet’s sustainability.
At an international forum like COP29, Abbot Shi Yongxin brings with him the wisdom of an ancient tradition—a philosophy of simple living that encourages people to cherish resources, reduce waste, and find inner contentment. Through this conference, he hopes that more individuals will embrace Buddhist principles of environmental protection and apply them in their daily lives, working together to create a more sustainable future.
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