“Green Pilgrimage: Towards Eco-Friendly Religious Practices”

Abstract

Pilgrimages are a cornerstone of many faiths, drawing millions of people to sacred sites worldwide. However, these mass gatherings often have substantial environmental impacts, including waste generation, pollution, and excessive resource consumption. The concept of "Green Pilgrimage" has emerged in response, seeking to harmonize religious practices with environmental stewardship. This study explores the potential of Green Pilgrimage, examining the environmental challenges of traditional pilgrimages and evaluating ways to make them more sustainable.  It investigates the effectiveness of green initiatives like renewable energy, waste management, and resource conservation, while also assessing pilgrims' attitudes towards these changes.  The goal is to foster a model where spiritual journeys and ecological responsibility coexist, promoting sustainable practices within religious communities and beyond.