Dr. David R. Loy on Eco-dharma, Eco-activism & Ecological Healing

The Sustainable Spirit Podcast

 January 15, 2024

Episode 7: Dr. David R. Loy on Eco-dharma, Eco-activism & Ecological Healing

SUMMARY

In this episode, Dr. Loy, a distinguished professor, writer, and Zen teacher in the Sanbo Zen tradition of Japanese Zen Buddhism, discusses ecodharma, a concept that intertwines Buddhism’s teachings with ecological consciousness.

He begins by explaining his bold decision to return his honorary degree to Carleton College, a move inspired by his Buddhist principles and a commitment to ecological sustainability.

Ecodharma, as Loy describes, is the integration of ecological awareness into Buddhist practice, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all life. This concept is not only relevant to Buddhists but also offers a universal approach to addressing the ecological crisis. He advocates for an ‘eco-awakening’, urging people to recognize their intrinsic connection with nature. This awakening involves adopting Buddhist perspectives, like mindfulness, to harmonize modern life’s demands with environmental stewardship.

Loy also introduces the idea of an ‘eco-sangha’, a community that fosters a deeper understanding of our relationship with the environment. He discusses the challenges of maintaining such a community and how they can be overcome, emphasizing the role of collective effort in ecological healing.

In discussing eco-activism, Loy advises on how individuals and communities can engage in environmental activism effectively, without succumbing to negative emotions like despair or anger. He stresses the importance of sustaining motivation and energy in the face of daunting ecological challenges.

Lastly, the concept of ecological healing is explored. Loy explains this in the context of Buddhist teachings, highlighting how individuals can engage in this healing process. He correlates ecological healing with the Buddhist concept of ‘Dharma’, discussing indicators of successful ecological healing at individual and community levels.

Through this discussion, Dr. Loy aims to provide listeners with practical ways to integrate these concepts into their lives, highlighting examples and strategies to inspire positive ecological change.

CALL TO ACTION, EPISODE LINK & CONTACT INFO

Once you have listened to this episode, you might be wondering how you can use what you’ve learned. Fear not, for we had a few ideas!

• Share this podcast with a friend (or an enemy)!
• Sign up to the Green Also Green email newsletter to receive regular updates on the release of new podcast episodes, as well as written content surrounding innovations at the intersection of environmental and socioeconomic prosperity by scrolling to the bottom of this page: https://greenalsogreen.com/
• If you would like to ask me questions, send in requests for future episode topics, challenge me, or tell me a joke, use this link to the Sustainable Spirit Podcast page of the Green Also Green website: https://greenalsogreen.com/sustainable-spirit-podcast/
• If you would like to reach out to Dr. Loy, you can do so using the following methods:
  • Visit this link to see more of his work: https://www.davidloy.org/
  • Email him: david@davidloy.org

Finally, let this be your reminder to be a little nicer than necessary to all your fellow humans. Happy New Year!