https://www.europeanacademyofreligion.org/euare2026

Panel description: In 2025, the new established European Christian Ecotheology Research network (ECErN), in collaboration with the World Council of Churches (WCC), the VID university and other ecumenical institutions, have initiated the process of making Ecotheology as academic discipline in an international conference involving many theologians from all over the world. This panel on "Ecotheology in the World Religions" explores the capacities of ecotheology as an academic discipline and theological perspectives of diverse faiths to promote ethical frameworks and ecological responsibilites that intercept with global injustices. As the world grapples with climate change, environmental degradation, and social inequality, ecotheology in all religious traditions have an important role to play in fostering more equitable and sustainable communities. This panel will examine ecotheological principles in creation care, theology of justice, ecumenical collaboration and eco-spiritual practices across Christian traditions and Indigenous spiritualities. The panel aims at the capacity of ecotheology to inspire both personal and collective actions for just community. Participants may investigate how each tradition's sacred texts, rituals, and ethical teachings guide their followers to rethink human interaction with the earth, prioritize creation care, and advocate for vulnerables communities disproportionately affected by eco-injustices. This open panel seeks to bridge religion and science, faith and action, offering concrete strategies for religious communities to lead in the transformation towards a more just and sustainable world. The discussions will offer insights into how ecotheology not only enhances ecological awareness but also promotes social justice, economic equity, and cultural healing in a rapidly changing world. The panel will highlight ecotheology as a catalyst discipline for building sustainable and spiritually enriched communities.