William Edelglass, Director of Studies at the Barre Center for Buddhist Studies, recently participated in the international conference From Green Living to Buddhist Environmentalism: Exploring Buddhism for a Sustainable Future at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London, held October 18–19, 2025.
The conference brought together thirteen scholars from across five continents to explore how Buddhist teachings and practices can support environmental protection and address the climate crisis. Participants examined themes ranging from eco-dharma and Buddhist environmental justice to altruistic economies and inter-religious dialogue on sustainability. Sponsored by the Tzu Chi Foundation and organized by the Centre for Buddhist Studies at SOAS, the event highlighted both academic research and the lived experience of Buddhist communities engaging in environmental action.
William chaired the panel Dharma, Meditation, and Mindfulness and later presented his paper, “Ambedkar, Water, Equality: Buddhist Environmental Justice in India,” during the session Proposals from Modern Leaders. His work contributes to a multi-year international research project investigating “the potential of Buddhism to advance the practice of environmental protection and mitigate climate change.” The project brings together scholars and Buddhist practitioners working at the intersection of ecology, ethics, and social engagement.
As William explained, “For Ambedkar, water is never just a natural resource—it’s a mirror of justice. How we share water reveals how we share dignity and equality in society.” Reflecting on the gathering, he noted how meaningful it was to connect with colleagues dedicated to integrating Buddhist wisdom with global environmental concerns.
While in London, William also visited the British Museum, where he encountered a remarkable artifact—a fragment of a soapstone box from Sāñcī that may once have held the relic of Sāriputta, the Buddha’s great disciple, now enshrined in the stūpa at BCBS. The encounter offered a moving reminder of BCBS’s link to the ancient Buddhist world and the living continuity of the Dharma across time and place.
Through his participation, William continues to represent BCBS in international dialogues at the forefront of Buddhist studies and environmental ethics—helping illuminate how the Dharma can guide humanity toward a more just and sustainable future.
