Himalayan Buddhism as Human Geological Agency

 Rethinking the Novelty of "the Anthropocene"

Reflecting on the Innovation of "the Anthropocene"
Casts doubt on the notion that the Anthropocene is a wholly novel era. Argues that although there is no denying that humans have an impact on the environment, this influence is not wholly new; human societies have long shaped environmental changes.

Impact on Human History: Through industrialization, agriculture, and other human-environment interactions, civilizations have changed landscapes for ages. For instance, terraced fields and sustainable agriculture in Bhutan are examples of traditional farming methods that have influenced the country's landscape for many generations. These practices represent a long history of human engagement with the environment.
Environmental Ethics and Buddhism: Buddhism's core values of charity, compassion, and non-harming can direct moral environmental behavior. For instance, Bhutan's Gross National Happiness ledge places a strong emphasis on protecting the environment, which is consistent with Buddhist principles of kindness and reverence for all living things.

Initiatives to Plant Trees: For instance, in Bhutan, events such as "National Tree Planting Day" inspire people to plant trees, embodying the Buddhist ideal of preserving the environment and life.
Cultural customs and protecting the environment: Bhutan's pre-Buddhist cultural customs, such respect for holy groves and natural landmarks, have long protected the environment. As an illustration of the country's cultural reverence for the natural world, sacred trees in Bhutan, which are frequently connected to regional deities, are shielded from development and logging.

Nature and Humanity's Interdependence:

The interconnectedness of all beings, as is taught in Buddhism, can have an impact on how cultures engage with their surroundings. For instance, Bhutanese culture places a strong emphasis on the interaction between people and the natural world. Natural disasters are frequently seen as the consequence of human activity, which makes environmental stewardship a shared responsibility.

Environmental Education and Awareness: Developing moral behavior and solutions to ecological problems requires an understanding of the environment

For instance, Buddhist teachings are incorporated into environmental education in Bhutanese schools, raising young awareness of ecological challenges and advocating sustainable practices.

Cultural Mandalas and Interactions with the Environment: In Buddhism, the idea of mandalas represents the interdependence of the natural world and life. For instance, mandala motifs are frequently included into Bhutanese art and architecture, which emphasizes ecological balance and harmony with nature.