ABSTRACT
The central aim of this chapter is to give examples about how some specific virtues in Buddhism can be seen as supportive of nature. However before determining what these virtues are, the nature of an environmental virtue needs to be more accurately defined to avoid any possible misunderstanding and ambiguity. An environmental virtue in the Buddhist context, simply put, ought to be no different from a virtue but with a specific essence. A virtue, as seen previously, is an intentional deed or action whose constant practice necessarily has the ability not only to lead to a certain character but also to a higher goal. An environmental virtue typically would epitomize an intentional deed or an action as well but one that is directed towards the wellbeing of the environment such that those who possess it, and other qualities like it, would be disposed to being compassionate and proactive towards the environment. Another important point to be noted about environmental virtue generally is that:
. . . environmental virtue is not merely instrumentally valuable as the disposition to identify and then perform proper actions; it is also valuable in itself. It is life-affirming and life-enhancing. Those who possess it are better off than those who do not, for they are able to find reward, satisfaction and comfort from their relationship with nature. . . .1
