A new research study conducted by the UK-based Institute for the Impact of Faith in Life (IIFL) has revealed that Hindus are more engaged in environmental conservation than followers of any other religion. The researchers interviewed Muslims, Christians, and Hindus living in the UK, and the findings highlighted that Hindus strongly believe that every particle of nature is imbued with divinity. This belief drives them to be far more active in environmental conservation compared to others.
The IIFL study also showed that 64% of Hindus actively engage in rewilding—a practice of returning nature to its natural form. In addition, 78% of Hindus would like to alter their lifestyles for the protection of the environment, and 44% belong to groups working towards environmental causes.
Amanda Murjan, one of the researchers on the study, said, “Hindus believe that everything in the environment is linked to each other. Nature is not a resource to them; they worship and hold it as sacred. Hindus strongly believe that God is in everything, and this belief reinforces their dedication to the protection of the environment.”
The study also discovered that 92% of Christians and 82% of Muslims concur that their religion promotes environmental conservation. The truth, however, is that not all Christians and Muslims engage in conservation activities. What is surprising is the fact that 31% of Christians emphatically reject global warming, and 42% believe that there is no reason to worry about it because they believe that God will do all things.
British Hindu Bansari Ruparel, one of the participants in the study, explained, “Hinduism is deeply connected with caring for the environment. Ayurveda, Hindu traditions, and culture all emphasize environmental well-being. However, it all depends on how we use nature for our own health and survival.”
She further added, “We do not pluck flowers or leaves from trees after sunset because we believe that they are in a state of rest. Even when we do pluck flowers, we should ask for their permission in our hearts. I don’t know about all Hindus, but the majority of Hindus I’ve encountered are doing something for the planet—either it’s being a vegetarian or having regard for cows. Even snakes are held sacred. I recall one incident in India where there was a snake on the road, and people stopped their vehicles and stepped out to let the snake pass safely. They waited for a long time, patiently, until the snake had disappeared.”
This research reveals how Hinduism and its practices naturally encourage the preservation of the environment, hence making Hindus more proactive in preserving and restoring nature.
