Britain’s Hindus Take the Lead in Eco-Friendly Actions: A Deep Dive into Environmental Concerns and Solutions

A recent study from the Institute for the Impact of Faith in Life (IIFL) reveals that Hindus in Britain are more concerned about climate change than other religious groups. This concern has driven them to take action for the environment.

The IIFL surveyed 2,396 adults across the UK, focusing on how faith influences environmental attitudes. While the study covered Hindu, Muslim, and Christian views, it didn’t have enough data on Jewish, Sikh, and Buddhist perspectives for a meaningful comparison.

Among the participants, 64% of Hindus engaged in rewilding — an effort to restore and protect natural habitats. In contrast, only 31% of Muslims and 22% of Christians participated in similar activities. Additionally, 78% of Hindus changed their consumer habits for environmental reasons, 63% donated to related charities, and 44% joined environmental groups. They were also the most likely to consider environmental issues when voting.

The report, titled Stewardship: Exploring Faith and Sustainability, highlights that Hindus and Buddhists view environmentalism as a personal experience rather than an obligation. IIFL noted that Hindus prioritize their feelings and personal understanding over religious rules when it comes to caring for the planet.

This worldview might stem from Hindu beliefs that see the entire world as interconnected. Everything is viewed as part of a divine ecosystem, which fosters a sense of responsibility towards the environment. In Hinduism, all things can be seen as sacred spaces for worship, encouraging followers to care for the Earth as a way to honor the divine.

Meanwhile, Christianity and Islam are based on monotheistic beliefs. They often view environmental issues through different lenses. Many Muslims see climate change as a test from God, motivating them to act. In contrast, some Christians may feel less urgency due to their beliefs in God’s control over the world and the promise of a second coming, which can lead to skepticism about climate change. A surprising 31% of Christian respondents expressed disbelief in global climate change, compared to only 17% of Muslims.

Despite these differences, all three faiths emphasize environmental responsibility. Most Muslims (92%) and Christians (82%) believe their faith compels them to care for the planet, showing a shared commitment among these groups.

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Climate Change,Britain,Environment,Environmentalism,muslims,Hindus,Christians