Prakṛtireva śaraṇam - "Nature is the only refuge": The role of Environmental Psychology in Saving the Planet

Abstract

Over the last few decades, humans have plundered nature’s resources much faster than they can be replenished. Our tendency to take nature for granted is beginning to create havoc across the world. The current state of affairs is tragic, given India’s ancient belief systems that approached nature as a divine entity. This article explores the potential of Environmental psychology in tackling the ecological issues facing us today. Environmental psychology is an interdisciplinary, application-oriented field that focuses on the interplay between individuals and their surroundings. It is directed at enhancing our relationship with the natural environment and making the built spaces that we occupy more humane. Climate change is a pressing concern for environmental psychologists worldwide. Environmental psychology can play a key role in enhancing our comprehension of the actions that contribute to climate change, particularly through the development of behavioural models. It can also enable more informed decisions on how communication methods can be used with the public and offer valuable insights into how people react to various policy measures. A key area for future research is understanding how Indian psychology with its emphasis on the interconnectedness of individuals and environments, indigenous wisdom and spiritual traditions, can be employed to promote sustainability. In some countries, policymakers are regularly seeking guidance from behavioural scientists to develop improved conceptual frameworks and effective implementation strategies to protect the environment. It is becoming increasingly critical to develop such collaborations in India as well. Of course, the foundation for this will come from an augmentation of the full-time courses offered in Indian universities and the creation of employment opportunities for those who pursue environmental psychology.