The impact of religious worldviews in environmental educationl education

Abstract

Current ecological crisis confronting humanity encompasses a range of severe environmental issues, including widespread deforestation and the pollution of soil, water, and air. This situation is further exacerbated by global warming, primarily driven by the accumulation of greenhouse gases. These environmental disruptions have profound negative effects on ecosystems, prompting the displacement of plant and animal species, and ultimately affecting human populations—especially the most impoverished, who rely heavily on natural resources for survival. In response to this crisis, many scientists and experts have undertaken efforts to raise societal awareness, aiming to mitigate further environmental degradation and to secure a just and sustainable legacy for future generations. Nevertheless, educational initiatives aimed at individuals have often fallen short in influencing deeper moral and ethical development.  Contemporary culture is predominantly shaped by capitalism, consumerism, and materialism—forces frequently promoted by multinational corporations in pursuit of maximal profit. Individuals are subjected to psychological pressures that drive excessive consumption, subsequently intensifying production demands. This escalation in production places additional strain on the environment, while end-of-life products frequently contribute to growing waste concerns. Religious traditions and their corresponding worldviews may provide valuable responses to this condition. With most of the global population identifying with some form of religion, these belief systems—rooted in centuries of accumulated wisdom—often present alternative frameworks grounded in spiritual values, reverence for nature, and equitable human relations. The aim of the paper is to analyse potential impact of religious worldviews in preventing negative effects on the environment through education. The authors applied qualitative research based on official documents and reports, literature survey, religious sources, as well as authors’ previous experience and research. Setting new educational values may be successfully implemented through different beliefs and religions, in our region that mainly being Christianity, along with other religions which the citizens adhere to.  The only sound ethical development is the one which does not undermine life, well-being and survival of future generations. Present level of power, knowledge and technology poses a challenge for responsible management.