The Akashi Project

Participants at the Faiths and Climate Change meeting were asked to discuss, in small groups, the question:  how do our faiths give strength for tackling the challenges presented by climate change?

These are the key points, as recorded on flip chart sheets at the meeting.

Group 1

Respecting the environment

Stewards of God’s creation

Using resources such as water and electricity in a meaningful manner

Sharing resources fairly amongst each other, including the poor

Living simply

Recycling – using charity shops, and sharing family resources

There are enough resources for everyone’s need, but not for everyone’s greed.

Group 2

Look for guidance in these times from our own faiths.  Search out the truth in our belief systems.  Dialogue within and with other faiths.

All faiths coming together to look at what we have in common.  Sharing knowledge and working together.

Group 3

Grace – thanks

Respect for what we already have

Neighbours are family

Voluntary work

Meditation

Recognise sacred growth

Koran

Do our duty

Planting trees

Look after each other

We can change the world

Be happier

Vegetarian

Similarities between different faiths

Calmer

Caring

Small things/actions

Changing travel methods

Values

Try our best

Not follow the trend of consumerism

Look after the planet

Feel content

Set a good example

Kind

Earth – sacred

Group 4

Balance

Helping people who suffer most

Looking to the future

Working with other faiths

One solution

Shared enthusiasm for wanting to do the right thing

Acting with integrity

Group 5

Sikhism – As God created everything, we shouldn’t destroy anything – water, earth

God asks followers to keep earth intact

Hinduism – Karma encourages us to be more positive in our outlook on life – think of the consequences of our actions.

Giving and taking – balance

Judaism – we should try as best we can as individuals, although we might not be perfect!

All – think of others and of the future

Things are interconnected

Support through faith communities gives more strength than being by ourselves