Ecological Civilization and the Path to Ecological Citizenship

A New Approach to Vasudhaiva Kuṭuṁbakaṁ

Abstract

Increasing ecological consciousness is a necessary response to the global environmental crisis and an important way to construct a sustainable society. China's policy of 'ecological civilization,' initiated in 2007, seeks to combine environmental protection with sustainable development but has faced challenges in practice, such as poor environmental governance and industrial pressures. In response, the principle of 'ecological citizenship' has emerged, encouraging individuals and communities to take ethical responsibility for the environment. This notion has global significance, and is in tune with the principle of vasudhaiva kuṭuṁbakaṁ, which envisions a world united in fostering sustainability and collective well-being. Integrating these principles can lead to a more cooperative and ethical approach to environmental protection on a global scale.