Governance of Sacred Landscapes: 21st Century challenges of maintaining the natural sanctity of place

Venerable Bhante Metteyya, Lumbini Development Trust, Nepal (guardian of Lumbini sacred site - birthplace of Lord Buddha) Dr. Gulnara Aitpaeva and Zhenish Kudakeev (Aigine Cultural Research Centre) Landscapes considered... [ view full abstract ]

Venerable Bhante Metteyya, Lumbini Development Trust, Nepal (guardian of Lumbini sacred site - birthplace of Lord Buddha)

Dr. Gulnara Aitpaeva and Zhenish Kudakeev (Aigine Cultural Research Centre)

Landscapes considered sacred to one or more faith groups occur across the globe. Such places, heralded as special for many reasons, can be considered global examples of how humanity can truly live in harmony and respect with nature. Yet sacred sites and landscapes are threatened the world over and the challenges being faced today are ever increasing, putting great pressure on the custodians and guardians of sacred places. Heavy visitation, pollution, waste management, people management and more general governance issues are just some of the issues custodians are dealing with today.

The proposed session gathers together some such custodians to discuss common issues along with ideas for solutions to 21^st century challenges. The session also celebrates and supports these guardians of sacred nature without whom the world would be a poorer place.