Case Study on Traditional Sustainable Practices in Southeast Asian Cultures

Abstract

This case study aims to investigate the local sustainable practices in Southeast Asian cultures and how these “green” practices can be cultivated to address the climate crisis. Oftentimes, sustainable solutions based on Western frameworks and perspectives are implemented to improve the climate situation. However, for non-Western regions and communities—in particular, in Southeast Asia (SEA)—some Western approaches in addressing the climate crisis may not be contextualized or feasible enough to be integrated in these said areas. Despite this incompatibility, SEA communities are not necessarily complacent about the climate crisis; in fact, SEA communities may already have sustainable practices embedded in their attitudes and daily life. This paper seeks to explore the following: [a] the possible reasons why some Western approaches of sustainability are not compatible with SEA lifestyle and preferences; [b] eco-friendly practices and initiatives in the SEA region; and [c] ways traditional SEA practices for sustainability can be encouraged and fostered within the local communities’ climate initiatives.