# Eco-Pledge

*Exported from [Holy-Writings.com](https://www.holy-writings.com/) on 2026-06-19 — 1 clipping.*

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> Source: Bahá'í Library Online (bahai-library.com), curated by Jonah Winters. Used by permission of the curator. Original citation: Local Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Glasgow, Eco-Pledge, bahai-library.com.
> ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
> 
> Eco - Pledge
> Welcome & greetings to you from Glasgow!
> In light of the UN Climate Change Conference COP26 taking place in this city in
> November 2021, the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Glasgow would like to
> offer this eco-pledge as a tool for individuals and communities to reflect on and
> enable practical action towards sustainable use of the world’s material
> resources. The compilation of environmental actions presented here aims to
> support the goals of COP26 as well as good ecological objectives generally.
> 
> Why?
> The implications of climate chaos caused by unsustainable lifestyles raises a
> moral imperative for global justice. In recognising that we are global citizens who
> care about every member of the human family, we feel compelled to respond
> with urgency. The prompt for action cannot be understated.
> 
> While governments, NGOs and large businesses consult to find solutions to
> reduce greenhouse gas emissions, individual citizens can and must also take
> some essential actions. We could begin by educating ourselves about the impact
> of our purchasing habits on the pollution of the air, land and ocean; or by being
> more conscious of our energy-use behaviour. At present, those of us who live in
> the developed nations of the world are exceeding our share of resource use and
> living beyond the capacity of the natural world to regenerate itself. Greater
> personal awareness of this is a vital first step, and then we must progress to
> action.
> 
> Glasgow skyline silhouette on front cover and Tree of Life illustration at end before back cover
> Images © Shutterstock
> What & How?
> The eco-pledge as a whole consists of 19 individual pledges as well as 32
> quotations from the Bahá’í Writings.
> 
> It’s up to you how you would like to use the eco-pledge, but joining and
> learning with others is usually most effective. It’s difficult to implement all
> actions simultaneously. Instead, try a few new actions for a week or so, and
> then add in more practical changes in the weeks and months following, building
> up good environmental practice and making a growing difference to your
> impact on the planet and the climate emergency. As the Bahá’í calendar
> consists of 19 months, perhaps your community could pledge to focus on one
> of the 19 actions every month?
> 
> The quotations from the Bahá’í writings are intended for deepening and
> meditation to support the pledge actions and place them in a spiritual context.
> They revolve around the subject of humanity’s vital interconnection with
> nature, our role as stewards of the planet’s biosphere, and they highlight
> virtues such as moderation, justice and humility.
> 
> Get started!
> Hopefully you’ll feel inspired to take this timely eco-pledge, and help to combat
> global warming and increasing extreme weather events. Taking various actions
> —as in this eco-pledge—sends a hopeful message to everyone around us. Let
> us remain hopeful. All of us can play a part in safeguarding the beauty and
> wondrous resources of our natural world for the sake of our future
> generations.
> 
> Please share this eco-pledge compilation with whoever you think might be
> interested and invite them to join in with practical actions. Feel free to share
> your feedback and experiences with cop26@glasgowbahais.org.uk
> 1          Choose a renewable energy supplier
> I will switch to a 100% renewable energy tariff (switching my supplier if
> necessary) for my home. I will consider doing this for any business
> premises I might have or suggest to my employer that they might want to
> investigate adopting a renewable energy supply.
> 
> There are several green energy suppliers and some of the big companies
> also offer green tariffs. For maximum impact, it is important to choose
> 100% renewable energy for both electricity and gas.
> 
> Tidal energy Hydroelectricity
> Wind energy                      Geothermal energy
> 
> Solar energy                                                          Biomass energy
> 
> © Shutterstock
> 
> © (aboubakr) Adobe Stock
> In the realm of humanity, therefore,
> cooperation and mutual aid are in a greater
> degree of completeness than that which
> prevaileth in the other realms of existence –
> so much so, that the life of humanity
> dependeth entirely upon this principle.
> 
> – ‘Abdu’l-Bahá,
> cited in Research Department of the Universal House of Justice,
> The Institution of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár (2017), No. 22
> 2                     Plant-based foods
> I will aim to eat more plant-based foods and lower my consumption of
> meat (especially beef and lamb) and dairy produce. I will be mindful of
> selecting seasonal and local produce.
> 
> Meat and dairy products use up a lot more land, water
> and energy resources than plant-based foods. Have
> you considered eating meat only once a week, as a
> special treat? To minimise carbon dioxide emissions
> for transport and storage, the best choices are
> locally grown produce and fruit and vegetables that
> are in season.
> 
> “What will be the food of the future?”
> “Fruit and grains. The time will come when
> meat will no longer be eaten. Medical science
> is only in its infancy, yet it has shown that our
> natural diet is that which grows out of the
> ground. The people will gradually develop up
> to the condition of this natural food.”
> – ‘Abdu’l-Bahá,
> cited in Julia M. Grundy, Ten Days in the Light of ‘Akká
> 3             Carbon footprint calculator
> I will calculate my carbon footprint using an online calculator to help me
> assess how I can make my lifestyle more sustainable. I will also think about
> any other ways in which I can help to reduce my environmental footprint
> and reflect upon whether there are any blind spots that I have in terms of
> where I could improve towards a sustainable and healthy lifestyle.
> 
> By answering quick and simple multiple-choice questions about your
> current lifestyle and consumer habits on the following website you can see
> clearly and understand how to improve our climate change impact. It’s very
> interesting, easy to do and highly recommended: footprint.wwf.org.uk
> 
> © Shutterstock
> 
> We cannot segregate the human heart
> from the environment outside us and
> say that once one of these is reformed
> everything will be improved. Man is
> organic with the world. His inner life
> moulds the environment and is itself
> also deeply affected by it. The one
> acts upon the other and every abiding
> change in the life of man is the result
> of these mutual reactions.
> 
> – Shoghi Effendi,
> Letter on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an
> individual
> © (nature design) Adobe Stock
> 4                             Moderation
> 
> I will think about whether I can be happier with fewer possessions, and I
> will share what I don’t need with others. I will use the resources I have
> already, before going to buy something I might not require.
> 
> Clothes that you won’t wear again can be given to charity shops. Unused
> electricals (small kitchen appliances, power tools for DIY, electronic
> gadgets) or surplus building materials (including home decorating supplies
> such as leftover paint) can be given to community groups, repair cafés,
> tool libraries, etc.
> 
> Using resources you already have, or delaying a purchase that you don’t
> (or don’t yet) need, are very helpful actions for lowering the ecological
> burden on the planet. Reflect on the notion of “moderate consumerism”
> —how many things do you buy that are excessive and unnecessary to your
> needs?
> 
> Whoso cleaveth to justice, can,
> under no circumstances, transgress
> the limits of moderation. He
> discerneth the truth in all things,
> through the guidance of Him Who
> is the All-Seeing.
> The civilization, so often vaunted
> by the learned exponents of arts and
> sciences, will, if allowed to
> overleap the bounds of moderation,
> bring great evil upon men. If carried
> [A true seeker] should be content
> to excess, civilization will prove as
> with little, and be freed from all
> prolific a source of evil as it had
> inordinate desire. He should treasure
> been of goodness when kept within
> the companionship of them that have
> the restraints of moderation.
> renounced the world…
> – Bahá’u’lláh,
> – Bahá’u’lláh,
> Gleanings, No. CLXIV
> Gleanings, No. CXXV
> 5                        Ethical shopping
> I will be a more conscious shopper and try to choose products and
> suppliers whose practices are not harmful for the planet. Over time, I aim
> to build up my awareness of various companies’ ethical and environmental
> responsibility. I’m willing to carry out some investigation to educate myself
> and improve my knowledge of sustainability issues.
> 
> Cheap goods often have involved exploitation of people and the environment.
> We should remain wary of purchases that contribute towards inequality, and
> favour ethically-responsible choices. Ethical or environmental product labels
> can be very helpful in this regard. We must however remain vigilant towards
> the misleading practice of ‘greenwashing’ in product marketing.
> As an example, in the event of buying new furniture comprising elements of
> wood, we should endeavour to source goods that have been crafted from
> sustainable materials supplied through accredited pathways such as the Forest
> Stewardship Scheme. Or, if purchasing paints or varnishes, make sure to
> choose those lowest in Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) emissions. Look
> for the ‘MINIMAL VOC content’ label.
> With multi-ingredient products, such as chocolate, it is worth checking that
> both the cocoa and the sugar are ethical and sustainable in their production.
> Refrain from buying holiday souvenirs and jewellery if you can’t be certain that
> they were sourced ethically and sustainability; reject, for example, products
> made from coral, shells, exotic leather, timber, exotic foods and endangered
> plants, as they can easily unwittingly fall into this category.
> 
> The essence of all that We have
> revealed for thee is Justice, is for man
> to free himself from idle fancy and
> imitation, discern with the eye of
> oneness His glorious handiwork, and
> look into all things with a searching
> eye.
> 
> – Bahá’u’lláh,
> Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, Asl-i-Kullu’l-Khayr
> 6                                     Travel Choices
> I will make the environment a central consideration in my travel choices. For journeys less
> than 1 mile, I’ll consider walking or cycling. Wherever feasible, I will use public transport. If
> I must drive, I will drive efficiently and consider car-sharing. If I need to purchase or renew
> a private vehicle, I’ll endeavour to make the most environmentally sound choice possible.
> I will fly less and look into offsetting the carbon expenditure of the air flights that I’ve
> taken in the past by donating funds to an environmental project.
> 
> Walking and cycling additionally have health benefits for most, and
> appropriate clothing will minimise the impact of weather.
> If buying a car, an electric car (charged with renewable
> electricity), a hybrid, or a smaller car with a lower
> consumption / higher efficiency are worth considering
> from an environmental perspective. Or, instead of
> buying a car, have you considered joining a car club
> instead?
> Offsetting can involve planting trees, through an expert reforestation
> organisation (such as Trees for Life, a Scottish Highlands rewilding project that
> has a Bahá’í Unity Grove and a World Interfaith Harmony Grove). Alongside
> these groves, Bahá’ís in and around Glasgow will be supporting the Iwokrama
> Forest conservation and social development project in Guyana for years to
> come, to leave a legacy from COP26. The Iwokrama project operates
> sustainable forestry in partnership with the indigenous population to protect
> the region’s rich ecological inheritance.
> 
> Reflection:                                            O Lord! Unto Thee I repair for refuge, and
> toward all Thy signs I set my heart. O Lord!
> Consider how many flights you                         Whether traveling or at home, and in my
> took in the last 10 years – one long-                  occupation or in my work, I place my whole
> haul return flight adds a surprisingly                 trust in Thee.
> large amount to your carbon                            Grant me then Thy sufficing help so as to
> footprint... sometimes as much as                      make me independent of all things, O Thou
> Who art unsurpassed in Thy mercy!
> all other carbon emission-related
> Bestow upon me my portion, O Lord, as
> lifestyle actions totalled over 1-3                    Thou pleasest, and cause me to be satisfied
> years. The same applies with                           with whatsoever Thou hast ordained for me.
> multiple short–medium length                           Thine is the absolute authority to command.
> plane journeys.                                         – The Báb,
> Selections from the Writings of the Báb, Ch. 7
> 
> Weblinks:     Bahá’í Unity Grove: treesforlife.org.uk/groves/g7033   Iwokrama Forest: iwokrama.org
> World Interfaith Harmony Grove: treesforlife.org.uk/groves/g8922
> 7                         Home insulation & heating
> 
> I will minimise heat loss from my home by adjusting habits. I will plan and
> implement any home insulation improvements which are feasible.
> 
> During the cold winter months, most of us rely upon heating our living
> spaces. Some governments (including in Scotland) offer financial
> incentives to improve thermal energy insulation for homes.
> To get fresh air into your home, ventilate in short bursts by opening
> windows wide for brief amounts of time, rather than keeping them slightly
> open all the time.
> 
> Let your vision be worldembracing, rather than confined
> to your own self.
> 
> – Bahá’u’lláh,
> Gleanings, No. XLIII
> 
> Credit - Simon Williams
> 8 Ethical investments, savings & pensions
> I will check my bank’s ethical credentials and switch to an alternative if its
> investment practices are harmful to the environment. I will find out
> whether my pension provider(s) have ethical options available and choose
> these, or switch providers where possible.
> 
> Do you know how your
> savings and retirement
> funds are being invested,
> which industry types and
> businesses are profiting?
> The more customers who
> express their objection to
> continued investment in
> fossil fuels the greater the
> momentum is maintained in
> bringing about change. It’s
> usually very simple to find out by calling your pension provider or check
> the options available in your online account.
> Transactions involving cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin are very energy
> intensive and best avoided.
> 
> O SON OF SPIRIT! The best beloved
> of all things in My sight is Justice; turn
> not away therefrom if thou desirest Me,
> and neglect it not that I may confide in
> thee. By its aid thou shalt see with thine
> own eyes and not through the eyes of
> others, and shalt know of thine own
> knowledge and not through the
> knowledge of thy neighbour. Ponder
> this in thy heart; how it behooveth thee
> to be. Verily justice is My gift to thee
> and the sign of My loving-kindness. Set
> it then before thine eyes.
> 
> – Bahá’u’lláh,
> Persian Hidden Words, No. 2
> 9                  Food waste reduction
> I will aim to reduce the food waste of my household. I will buy only what
> can be consumed before spoilage occurs, setting correct portion sizes and
> using leftovers in another meal. If because of short ‘use-by’ (expiration)
> dates it becomes evident that I will have food going to waste, I will donate
> it to a food bank or share it with neighbours before this occurs.
> 
> The OLIO app (olioex.com, Android, iOS) can help you find local takers for
> food you want to give away.
> 
> Economy is the foundation of
> human prosperity. The
> spendthrift is always in trouble.
> Prodigality on the part of any
> person is an unpardonable sin.
> 
> – ‘Abdu’l-Bahá,
> cited in J. E. Esslemont, Bahá’u’lláh and the New
> Era, p. 286
> 10                   Energy use at home
> I am going to be more aware of my energy use at home and am happy to
> look at ways of reducing it: I’ll look into measures such as LED lighting;
> thermostats and radiator thermostats; smart meters; using the most
> efficient ways to cook.
> 
> Using pot lids to retain the cooking heat which can reduce energy use by a
> quarter (25% less) saving you money too. And only boil as much water as
> you need.
> 
> Credit - Abbie Trayler-Smith / UK Department for International Development
> 
> Every man of discernment, while
> walking upon the earth, feeleth indeed
> abashed, inasmuch as he is fully aware
> that the thing which is the source of his
> prosperity, his wealth, his might, his
> exaltation, his advancement and power
> is, as ordained by God, the very earth
> which is trodden beneath the feet of all
> men. There can be no doubt that
> whoever is cognizant of this truth, is
> cleansed and sanctified from all pride,
> arrogance, and vainglory.
> 
> – Bahá’u’lláh,
> Epistle to the Son of the Wolf
> 11                          Increase spirituality
> 
> I will organise a community devotional focussed on the environment with
> some prayers for climate justice and Indigenous peoples. I can even do
> this just by myself in moments of quietude.
> 
> We must give thought to and recognise the spiritual values that we need,
> both individually and collectively, to bring about the necessary changes in
> modern lifestyles to ensure long-term sustainability.
> These spiritual values include: Equity and Justice, Moderation,
> Trustworthiness and Moral Leadership, as well as the Independent
> Investigation of Truth.
> 
> Wert thou to attain to but a
> dewdrop of the crystal
> waters of divine knowledge,
> thou wouldst readily realize
> that true life is not the life of
> the flesh but the life of the
> spirit…
> 
> – Bahá’u’lláh,
> cited in J. E. Esslemont,
> Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era, p. 221
> © (Mihhail) Adobe Stock
> 
> Reflect upon the inner realities of
> the universe, the secret wisdoms
> involved, the enigmas, the
> interrelationships, the rules that
> govern all. For every part of the
> universe is connected with every
> other part by ties that are very
> powerful and admit of no
> imbalance....
> – ‘Abdu’l-Bahá,
> Selections from the Writings of
> ‘Abdu’l‑Bahá, No. 137                                                              © (Marek) Adobe Stock
> 12                   High quality products
> I will favour acquiring durable, higher quality products that have the
> potential to last longer. I will have items repaired when it is sensible and
> not financially prohibitive to do so.
> I should also consider buying high quality refurbished goods.
> 
> Durable goods may cost more initially but
> usually reduce impact on the environment
> and often save money in the long run.
> Consider disposing of old goods only when
> they are beyond repair or are too shabby in
> appearance.
> 
> Bahá’u’lláh suggested a 19-year renewal period for home furniture in the
> Kitáb-i-Aqdas; how different is this to the present-day habits of fast fashion
> and annual mobile phone contracts! If a purchase can be delayed, let’s
> consider doing so.
> 
> Material resources will always be required
> to sustain civilization. Humanity, observed
> ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, will be “constantly taking
> out of nature’s laboratory new and
> wonderful things.” As consciousness of
> the oneness of humankind increases, so too
> does the recognition that the wealth and
> wonders of the earth are the common
> heritage of all people, who deserve just
> and equitable access to its resources.
> 
> – Bahá’í International Community,
> Nature and the Advancement of Civilization,
> bahai.org website
> 13Respect & protect the natural environment
> I will appreciate and protect all natural spaces including the land, forests,
> rivers, oceans and wildlife.
> I’ll connect with and value green spaces local to me.
> 
> Urban parks have a beneficial effect on the local climate, our health &
> (physical and mental) wellbeing, and wildlife also.
> 
> Through being, resting and meditating in nature, we can grow closer and
> quicken our connection to our spiritual self and gain a deeper sense of
> peace and tranquillity.
> 
> In recent years it has become popular to pave over or put wooden decking
> within garden areas, sometimes just to reduce the maintenance of green
> spaces. This has a detrimental effect upon wildlife and can have an impact
> on local flooding also. Having a smaller area allotted to grass lawn while
> setting aside more space for plant species of greater wildlife value such as
> wildflowers, is a valuable benefit for boosting a richer biodiversity in your
> garden.
> 
> Say: Nature in its essence is
> the embodiment of My
> Name, the Maker, the
> Creator. Its manifestations
> are diversified by varying
> causes, and in this diversity
> there are signs for men of
> discernment. Nature is God’s
> Will and is its expression in
> and through the contingent
> world. It is a dispensation of
> Providence ordained by the
> The country is the world of the soul, the city   Ordainer, the All-Wise.
> is the world of bodies.
> – Bahá’u’lláh,
> – Bahá’u’lláh, cited in J. E. Esslemont,         Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh revealed after
> Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era, p. 35               the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, Lawh-i-Hikmat
> 14                      Organic produce
> 
> I will purchase organic goods wherever my budget allows.
> 
> Pesticides often kill many diverse organisms and plants and can contribute
> to environmental pollution, while buying organic products protects
> biodiversity, including vital pollinators of foods. Growing a small selection
> of fruit and vegetables can be a very rewarding experience and allows us
> to appreciate nature more!
> 
> [C]o-operation and reciprocity
> are essential properties which are
> inherent in the unified system of
> the world of existence, and
> without which the entire creation
> would be reduced to nothingness.
> 
> – ‘Abdu’l-Bahá,
> cited in Bahá’í International Community,
> Conservation and Sustainable Development
> in the Bahá’í Faith
> 15                                Plastics
> I will begin to buy fewer products that are packaged in plastic and
> especially avoid single-use plastic items. I will avoid contributing to
> microplastics pollution. Also, I will take reusable bags with me when I go
> shopping.
> 
> Plastic litter and the rapid increase in microplastics (and microfibres) in the
> environment is harmful to wildlife and increasingly toxic to humans also.
> Avoid polystyrene/Styrofoam as it’s one of the most persistent and
> environmentally-damaging packaging materials.
> Microfibres are found in fleece clothing and blankets—they come loose
> when they’re washed and enter the water stream and then become
> ingested by animals and humans. Buy products from natural materials such
> as cotton, wool and hemp instead.
> 
> O son of man! If thine eyes be turned towards
> mercy, forsake the things that profit thee and
> cleave unto that which will profit mankind.
> And if thine eyes be turned towards justice,
> choose thou for thy neighbour that which
> thou choosest for thyself. Humility exalteth
> man to the heaven of glory and power, whilst
> pride abaseth him to the depths of
> wretchedness and degradation.
> 
> – Bahá’u’lláh,
> Epistle to the Son of the Wolf
> 16                                Recycle
> 
> I will recycle paper, plastic, tins and glass (and any other recyclables) and
> compost my food waste.
> 
> Different local authorities often have different lists of what can be
> accepted as recycling. Being aware of and following the rules increases the
> proportion of material that can actually be recycled.
> 
> The Lord of all mankind hath
> fashioned this human realm to be a
> Garden of Eden, an earthly paradise.
> If, as it must, it findeth the way to
> harmony and peace, to love and
> mutual trust, it will become a true
> abode of bliss, a place of manifold
> blessings and unending delights.
> Therein shall be revealed the
> excellence of humankind, therein shall
> the rays of the Sun of Truth shine forth
> on every hand.
> 
> – ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Selections from the Writings
> of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, No. 220
> 17                       Home Appliances
> If purchasing an appliance (white electric goods, hot-water boiler etc.), I
> will prioritise my choice based upon energy efficiency ratings. Also, I’ll use
> appliances in the most efficient way; i.e., putting in a full load of clothes /
> dishes / etc. and running it on the most energy-saving setting.
> 
> All men
> have been created
> to carry forward
> an ever-advancing
> civilization.
> 
> – Bahá’u’lláh,
> Gleanings, No. CIX
> 18                            Save water
> I’m going to practice conservative water usage. I’ll consider installing flow
> reduction devices for showerheads, taps etc. and look into rainwater
> harvesting for garden watering. These actions are generally inexpensive
> but over a period of time can lower energy use and save money also.
> 
> All of the water that comes out of our taps has been treated (physically &
> chemically) to make it safe for drinking and often has to be pumped along
> the pipes to arrive at our homes. The average person in the UK uses over
> 140 litres of water daily, so that’s in excess of 140 kilograms of water per
> day that needs to be pumped to supply your water pipe. Consider then
> that a family of 4 uses over half a ton every day!
> This preparation work and pipeline delivery has an associated carbon
> footprint because of the energy use in bringing clean water to our tap.
> 
> The earth is
> but one country,
> and mankind
> its citizens.
> 
> – Bahá’u’lláh,
> Gleanings, No. CXVII
> 19               Connect & talk to others
> 
> I will speak to at least two people I know about the issues regarding
> climate change and about anything useful that I’ve learned from this
> pledge or other reading and investigations.
> 
> Perhaps you have some practical energy saving techniques that are worth
> sharing? Or maybe you have experienced an example of how to apply a
> spiritual principle to mitigate climate change? Or any other knowledge
> gleaned from learning about COP26 and climate change?
> You might even want to write to your local elected representative!
> 
> “Be anxiously concerned with the needs of
> the age ye live in, and centre your
> deliberations on its exigencies and
> requirements,” [Bahá’u’lláh counselled his
> followers.] …
> It is with such thoughts in mind that
> Bahá’ís enter into collaboration, as their
> resources permit, with an increasing
> number of movements, organizations,
> groups and individuals, establishing
> partnerships that strive to transform society
> and further the cause of unity, promote
> human welfare, and contribute to world
> solidarity.
> 
> – The Universal House of Justice,
> Letter dated 2 March 2013
> The Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Glasgow hopes that you
> feel encouraged and uplifted by participating in this eco-pledge!
> 
> Just as nature provides us with the material nourishment we
> require, we should gratefully accept our role as responsible
> stewards of the earth’s resources.
> 
> As we labour together in our efforts to preserve the abundant
> gifts on our Earth, we are confident that all our individual actions
> will bear fruit and merge in cooperation with each
> other’s efforts for the benefit of all living on this planet both
> today and in the future.
> 
> Copyright © Bahá’í International Community   Copyright © Bahá’í International Community
> Stewardship of Nature: Readings for deepening
> 
> Consider the world of created beings, how varied and diverse they are in species, yet with
> one sole origin. All the differences that appear are those of outward form and colour. This
> diversity of type is apparent throughout the whole of nature. …
> Let us look at the beauty in diversity, the beauty of harmony, and learn a lesson…
> – ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Paris Talks, 28th October 1911
> 
> By nature is meant those inherent properties and necessary relations derived from the
> realities of things. And these realities of things, though in the utmost diversity, are yet
> intimately connected one with the other… Liken the world of existence to the temple of
> man. All the organs of the human body assist one another, therefore life continues…
> Likewise among the parts of existence there is a wonderful connection and interchange
> of forces which is the cause of life of the world and the continuation of these countless
> phenomena.
> – ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, cited in Bahá’í International Community, The Bahá’í Statement on Nature,
> 1987
> 
> The well-being of mankind, its peace and security, are unattainable unless and until its
> unity is firmly established.
> – Bahá’u’lláh, Gleanings, No. CXXXI
> 
> Consumer culture, today’s inheritor by default of materialism’s gospel of human
> betterment, is unembarrassed by the ephemeral nature of the goals that inspire it. For the
> small minority of people who can afford them, the benefits it offers are immediate, and
> the rationale unapologetic. Emboldened by the breakdown of traditional morality, the
> advance of the new creed is essentially no more than the triumph of animal impulse, as
> instinctive and blind as appetite, released at long last from the restraints of supernatural
> sanctions. … Tendencies once universally castigated as moral failings mutate into
> necessities of social progress. Selfishness becomes a prized commercial resource;
> falsehood reinvents itself as public information… Under appropriate euphemisms, greed,
> lust, indolence, pride—even violence—acquire not merely broad acceptance but social
> and economic value.
> – Bahá’í International Community, One Common Faith
> 
> Look not upon the creatures of God except with the eye of kindliness and of mercy,
> for Our loving providence hath pervaded all created things, and Our grace encompassed
> the earth and the heavens.
> – Bahá’u’lláh, Gleanings, No. XIV
> O Thou kind Lord! Grant that these trees may become the adornment of the Abhá
> Paradise. Cause them to grow through Thy celestial bounty. Make them fresh and verdant
> and besprinkle them with heavenly dewdrops. Attire them with robes of radiant beauty
> and crown their heads with gorgeous blossoms. Adorn them with goodly fruit and waft
> over them Thy sweet savours.
> Thou art the Bestower, the All-Loving, the Most Radiant, the Most Resplendent.
> – ‘Abdu’l‐Bahá, Additional Prayers revealed by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
> 
> Train your children from the earliest days to be infinitely tender and loving to animals.
> – ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, No. 138
> 
> Only a comprehensive vision of a global society, supported by universal values and
> principles, can inspire individuals to take responsibility for the long-term care and
> protection of the natural environment. Bahá’ís find such a world-embracing vision and
> system of values in the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh—teachings which herald an era of
> planetary justice, prosperity and unity.
> – Bahá’í International Community, Conservation and Sustainable Development in the Bahá’í
> Faith, 1995
> 
> The welfare of any segment of humanity is inextricably bound up with the welfare of the
> whole. Humanity’s collective life suffers when any one group thinks of its own well-being
> in isolation from that of its neighbours or pursues economic gain without regard for how
> the natural environment, which provides sustenance for all, is affected.
> – The Universal House of Justice, Message to the Bahá’ís of the World, 1st March 2017
> 
> But now coming to man, we see he hath neither hooked teeth nor sharp nails or claws,
> nor teeth like iron sickles. From this it becometh evident and manifest that the food of
> man is cereals and fruit. Some of the teeth of man are like millstones to grind the grain,
> and some are sharp to cut the fruit. Therefore he is not in need of meat, nor is he obliged
> to eat it. Even without eating meat he would live with the utmost vigour and energy. For
> example, the community of the Brahmins in India do not eat meat; notwithstanding this
> they are not inferior to other nations in strength, power, vigour, outward senses or
> intellectual virtues. Truly, the killing of animals and the eating of their meat is somewhat
> contrary to pity and compassion, and if one can content oneself with cereals, fruit, oil and
> nuts, such as pistachios, almonds and so on, it would undoubtedly be better and more
> pleasing.
> – ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Compilation of Compilations: Health, Healing, and Nutrition, No. 17
> 
> “What will be the food of the future?” “Fruit and grains. The time will come when meat
> will no longer be eaten. Medical science is only in its infancy, yet it has shown that our
> natural diet is that which grows out of the ground. The people will gradually develop up
> to the condition of this natural food.” {as seen in pledge No. 2}
> – ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, cited in Julia M. Grundy, Ten Days in the Light of ‘Akká
> We cannot segregate the human heart from the environment outside us and say that
> once one of these is reformed everything will be improved. Man is organic with the world.
> His inner life moulds the environment and is itself also deeply affected by it. The one acts
> upon the other and every abiding change in the life of man is the result of these mutual
> reactions. {3}
> – Shoghi Effendi, Letter on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer, 17 February
> 1933
> 
> Whoso cleaveth to justice, can, under no circumstances, transgress the limits of
> moderation. He discerneth the truth in all things, through the guidance of Him Who is the
> All-Seeing. The civilization, so often vaunted by the learned exponents of arts and
> sciences, will, if allowed to overleap the bounds of moderation, bring great evil upon men.
> Thus warneth you He Who is the All-Knowing. If carried to excess, civilization will prove as
> prolific a source of evil as it had been of goodness when kept within the restraints of
> moderation. {4}
> – Bahá’u’lláh, Gleanings, No. CLXIV
> 
> [A true seeker] should be content with little, and be freed from all inordinate desire. He
> should treasure the companionship of them that have renounced the world… {4}
> – Bahá’u’lláh, Gleanings, No. CXXV
> 
> Let your vision be world-embracing, rather than confined to your own self. {7}
> – Bahá’u’lláh, Gleanings, No. XLIII
> 
> O Son of Spirit! The best beloved of all things in My sight is Justice; turn not away
> therefrom if thou desirest Me, and neglect it not that I may confide in thee. By its aid thou
> shalt see with thine own eyes and not through the eyes of others, and shalt know of thine
> own knowledge and not through the knowledge of thy neighbour. Ponder this in thy
> heart; how it behoveth thee to be. Verily justice is My gift to thee and the sign of My
> loving-kindness. Set it then before thine eyes. {8}
> – Bahá’u’lláh, Persian Hidden Words, No. 2
> 
> Economy is the foundation of human prosperity. The spendthrift is always in trouble.
> Prodigality on the part of any person is an unpardonable sin. {9}
> – ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, cited in J. E. Esslemont, Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era, p. 286
> 
> Every man of discernment, while walking upon the earth, feeleth indeed abashed,
> inasmuch as he is fully aware that the thing which is the source of his prosperity, his
> wealth, his might, his exaltation, his advancement and power is, as ordained by God, the
> very earth which is trodden beneath the feet of all men. There can be no doubt that
> whoever is cognizant of this truth, is cleansed and sanctified from all pride, arrogance,
> and vainglory. {10}
> – Bahá’u’lláh, Epistle to the Son of the Wolf
> Reflect upon the inner realities of the universe, the secret wisdoms involved, the enigmas,
> the interrelationships, the rules that govern all. For every part of the universe is
> connected with every other part by ties that are very powerful and admit of no
> imbalance… {11}
> – ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, No. 137
> 
> Material resources will always be required to sustain civilization. Humanity, observed
> ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, will be “constantly taking out of nature’s laboratory new and wonderful
> things.” As consciousness of the oneness of humankind increases, so too does the
> recognition that the wealth and wonders of the earth are the common heritage of all
> people, who deserve just and equitable access to its resources. {12}
> – Bahá’í International Community, Nature and the Advancement of Civilization, bahai.org
> website
> 
> The country is the world of the soul, the city is the world of bodies. {13}
> – Bahá’u’lláh, cited in J. E. Esslemont, Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era, p. 35
> 
> Nature in its essence is the embodiment of My Name, the Maker, the Creator. Its
> manifestations are diversified by varying causes, and in this diversity there are signs for
> men of discernment. Nature is God’s Will and is its expression in and through the
> contingent world. It is a dispensation of Providence ordained by the Ordainer, the All-
> Wise. {13}
> – Bahá’u’lláh, Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh revealed after the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, Lawh-i-Hikmat
> 
> The Lord of all mankind hath fashioned this human realm to be a Garden of Eden, an
> earthly paradise. If, as it must, it findeth the way to harmony and peace, to love and
> mutual trust, it will become a true abode of bliss, a place of manifold blessings and
> unending delights. Therein shall be revealed the excellence of humankind, therein shall
> the rays of the Sun of Truth shine forth on every hand. {16}
> – ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, No. 220
> 
> All men have been created to carry forward an ever-advancing civilization. {17}
> – Bahá’u’lláh, Gleanings, No. CIX
> 
> The earth is but one country, and mankind its citizens. {18}
> – Bahá’u’lláh, Gleanings, No. CXVII
> This Eco-Pledge was prepared under the auspices of the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Glasgow
> Registered in Scotland | Charity No. SC001967 | Company No. SC054995
> Autumn 2021 / 178 B.E.
> The digital version can be downloaded from www.glasgowbahais.org.uk/cop26
> Your feedback and comments are welcome: cop26@glasgowbahais.org.uk
> More information about the Bahá’í Faith can be found at www.bahai.org
>
> — *Eco-Pledge (Used by permission of the curator)*