“As the grave effects of surpassing planetary limits become increasingly apparent, from climate change to biodiversity loss to environmental degradation and pollution, humanity is being compelled to develop more mature, collaborative, and constructive relationships between its peoples and with the natural environment.”
Bahá’í International Community, One Planet, One Habitation: A Bahá’í Perspective on Recasting Humanity’s Relationship with the Natural World
by Christine Muller
The Baha’i International Community wrote a significant statement One Planet, One Habitation: A Bahá’í Perspective on Recasting Humanity’s Relationship with the Natural World. While it was written for public discourse on the international level, we can learn very much from it. It raises our consciousness about the importance of living in harmony with nature, both as individuals and communities, and it proposes fundamental shifts in mindsets and practical actions that can assist humankind in addressing the existential threats of the environmental crisis. It helps us grasp the complexities of the topic and explains how the concept of the spiritual nature of the human being and the principles of oneness, justice, and moderation are prerequisites for an environmentally sustainable civilization.
Each paragraph contains a wealth of profound content, but the language is not easy. Many readers may like to focus on just a section or two a day—preferably early in the day when the mind is still fresh. The statement is also great for group study, and is a great example and guide for engaging in public discourse.
Of course, public discourse will be quite different in different settings and communities. How could an inclusive, non-adversarial, and unifying approach as exemplified in the BIC statement be applied in our local efforts of public discourse? How could the statement be used wisely and who might be receptive to receiving it?
The statement is beautifully illustrated and available as a PDF file on the BIC website. One can also order printed copies from the Baha’i Book Store.
There is also a link to the text only (without the pictures). This version is more suitable for reading and study.
For the main themes in simplified language, use this link: One Planet, One Habitation: Themes. The statement has already been translated into Romanian, French, Spanish, Arabic, and German.
For study materials, go to the following web page and scroll down to One Planet One Habitation: IEF Course Materials.
Enjoy reading, reflecting, discussing, and finally applying the thoughts expressed in the statement in your daily life, in social action and public discourse!
