Environmental Protection

Master Cheng Yen first called for environmental protection in 1990 and there are over 44,700 registered environmental protection volunteers island-wide as of May 2005. They are actively involved in promoting the concept of environmental protection in their communities, sorting trash, and collecting recyclables, etc. Master Cheng Yen hopes that each of us will take action to protect our environment. We should take good care of what we have and "turn trash into gold." According to surveys, we have collected and sold recyclable materials worth over NT$160 million [US$6 million] since 1990. The paper we have recycled is equal to 360,000 twenty-year-old trees.

Master Cheng Yen teaches that it is our responsibility to preserve a decent environment for our next generation. We should keep the forests in good condition. We should not cut down too many trees, nor should we pump underground water without limit or steal sand and rocks from nature. Tzu Chi has designed a reusable bag in which one may carry a bowl, a cup, chopsticks, etc., to minimize the use of disposable eating utensils in markets and restaurants. In addition, the Master also calls on everyone to recycle trash and save water, electric power and daily necessities. We should not simply dispose of clothes, food, houses, cars, etc., in pursuit of newer fashions. In this way, our next generations may live in a decent environment.