Editor's note: Krishna Prasad Oli, PhD, is the former Ambassador of Nepal to China, an ecosystem specialist, an environmental lawyer and an adjunct professor at Shanghai University. This article is adapted from a speech he delivered at the International Symposium for Commemorating the 75th Anniversary of the Peaceful Liberation of Xizang on May 23, 2026, in Lhasa. The article reflects the author's opinions, and not necessarily the views of CGTN.

At its core, ecological civilization is not merely a policy framework or a development model. It is a way of being a reorientation of human consciousness that recognizes the profound interdependence between humanity and nature. Long before modern environmental discourse emerged, Asian philosophical traditions had already articulated this interconnected worldview.

In Buddhism, the principle of dependent origination teaches us that all phenomena arise in interdependence. Nothing exists in isolation. This insight naturally fosters compassion not only for fellow human beings but for all sentient life and the environment that sustains it. The Buddhist ethic of non-harm, or ahimsa, encourages a lifestyle that minimizes ecological disruption and promotes harmony.

Daoism, on the other hand, offers the concept of harmony with the Dao, "the natural way of the universe." It emphasizes wu wei, or non-coercive action, suggesting that human beings should align themselves with the rhythms of nature rather than attempt to dominate it. This philosophy resonates strongly with modern ideas of sustainability and ecological balance.

Similarly, Hinduism presents a sacred vision of nature. Prakriti Raxiti Rexitee. The earth is revered as Bhumi Devi, rivers are goddesses, and mountains are divine abodes. The concept of dharma includes responsibilities not only to society but to the natural world. The idea of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam-the world as one family-extends moral consideration to all living beings and ecosystems.

These philosophical traditions provide a rich ethical foundation for ecological civilization. But how are these ideas being applied in the contemporary context?

In China, the concept of ecological civilization has been elevated to a national development strategy. It reflects an effort to integrate economic growth with environmental protection, drawing inspiration, in part, from traditional philosophies like Daoism and Buddhism. Nowhere is this more visible than in Xizang, where the fragile high-altitude ecosystem demands careful stewardship. Efforts in biodiversity conservation, grassland restoration and sustainable livelihoods are increasingly aligned with both scientific understanding and traditional ecological knowledge.

Xizang, often called the “Roof of the World” and the “Third Pole,” holds particular significance. Its glaciers feed major river systems that sustain billions of people across Asia. Protecting its ecosystems is not only a regional priority but a global responsibility. Integrating traditional wisdom with modern science in Xizang can serve as a model for high-altitude ecological governance worldwide. In this regard, the Chinese government, along with the Xizang Autonomous Regional government, has adopted a model of ecological civilization by promulgating and enforcing strict policies and conservation regulations, massive greening initiatives and the expansion of clean energy. It has followed a people-centric approach to development, prioritizing eco-environmental protection, innovation, coordination and green development.

For example, Lhasa, the capital city of Xizang, has been transforming its barren mountain slopes into a vibrant green landscape. Hydropower potential is anticipated to increase from 3.7 GW in 2020 to 118 GW by 2060. Similarly, the energy mix, particularly solar and wind, has been greatly expanded to reduce carbon emissions and meet China's commitments under the Paris Agreement to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030 and 2060, as per the plan passed by the Communist Party of China's National Congress.

In conclusion, the convergence of Buddhist, Daoist and Hindu philosophies provides a profound ethical and spiritual foundation for ecological civilization. Their application across China, Nepal, India and Sri Lanka demonstrates that sustainable development is not merely a technical challenge, but a moral and cultural endeavor.

Let us, therefore, draw upon this shared heritage to build a future where humanity lives in harmony with nature – a true ecological civilization.