GUIDELINES FOR FOLLOWING THE MIDDLY WAY TO SOLVE CURRENT ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS

Abstract

This research article has 3 objectives as follows: 1). to study the current environmental problem in Thailand; 2). to study about the Middle Way in Buddhism and 3). to propose a guideline for practicing the Middle Way to solve current environmental problem. This thesis research is qualitative method through documents, and interviews in order to analyze problems and to demonstrate in descriptive research.

The research results found that 1) the current environmental problems in Thailand are the problems of illegal forest burning, the problems of deforestation and the problems of air pollution. 2) The teachings of the Middle Way in Buddhism are the Middle Path, called the Noble Eightfold Path, which consists of right view, right thought, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness and right concentration. 3) There are guidelines in solving such environmental problems under the Middle Way, as follows: (1) guideline on problem-solving by Right View and Right Thought, aiming at disseminating knowledge on environment and exploring causes and solutions; (2) guideline on problem-solving by Right Speech, Right Action, and Right Livelihood, through right communication and policy in order to build awareness on environmental problems and making a living without damage to nature; and (3) guideline on problem-solving by Right Effort, Right Mindfulness, and Right Concentration, aiming at controlling negative behavior impacting on environment, encouraging the conservation and preservation of environment, and including establishing strong mind in solving problem for sustainable environment.