Buddhist Integrative Waste Management Model of Temples in Bueng Kan Province

Abstract

The objectives of this research were: 1) to study the condition of the waste problem of the temples in Bueng Kan Province; 2) to study the Buddhist integrative waste management of temples in Bueng Kan Province; 3) to study the model of Buddhist integrative waste management of the temples in Bueng Kan Province. This study was conducted by means of the qualitative research methodology through the documentary study and fieldwork by using interviews and participatory observations of a target group of 44 key informants. The obtained data were presented by descriptive writing. The research results were as follows: The condition of the waste problem of the temples in Bueng Kan Province: garbage is generated a lot during the temple's events because people are lacked of discipline in disposing garbage so there is a collection of garbage. Personnel are lacked of proper knowledge in waste management. Garbage bins are not up to standard and not enough. Garbage is apparently the cause of pollution. The Buddhist integrative waste management of temples in Bueng Kan Province: for the temples, most of them use local policies. Some temples set policies directly. The municipality promotes waste disposal innovations that are in line with the way of life with the emphasis on the use of waste. There is an awareness of shared responsibility. There is a daily routine timetable of novice monks to organize cleaning activities to develop temples together with network partners every month. They also pay attention to segregation of waste before discarding. The model of Buddhist integrative waste management of the temples in Bueng Kan Province: the use of the Diṭṭhadhammikattha (gain for this life) is integrated with 3Rs principles until the model is achieved, namely planning, development, network recruitment, paying attention to balance by campaigning for communication to raise awareness among all parties about the cleanliness of the temple together with network partners. A cleaning committee should be established. There are cleaning schedules in both morning and afternoon sessions, determination of the responsible area, organizing waste disposal and storage of equipment in an orderly fashion, sharing experiences and building relationships with networks to build good friendships. Monks live in peace, be mindfulness before consuming and develop a simple temple according to the rules and regulations, using environmentally friendly materials.