Case Studies in Germany

This chapter provides seven in-depth ethnographic case studies of eco-Buddhist communities in Germany, representing diverse lineages such as the Order of Interbeing, XR Buddhists, Fo Guang Shan, Triratna, Zen Peacemakers, and the German Buddhist Union. Each section explores how these groups reinterpret Buddhist teachings—in particular interbeing, compassion, non-harm, and the Bodhisattva ideal—to address climate and ecological challenges. The chapter analyzes ritual practices such as walking meditation, tree planting, ecological retreats, political demonstrations, and nature-centered mindfulness exercises. It highlights variations among groups, from highly politicized eco-activism to more subtle daily-life ecological commitments. Across cases, the chapter shows how Buddhist communities integrate ethical teachings, embodied practices, and organizational cooperation to respond to climate change while navigating cultural adaptation and epistemic negotiation in the German context.

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