The Role of E.F. Schumacher and Seyyed Hossein Nasr's Perspectives in Natural Resource Conservation and Sustainable Development

Abstract

The conservation of natural resources and sustainable development are critical issues in the modern era. This article examines the roles of E.F. Schumacher and Seyyed Hossein Nasr's perspectives in this context. Schumacher, with his philosophy of "Small is Beautiful," advocates for local development and the use of appropriate technologies, believing that the economy should serve people. Conversely, Nasr emphasizes a return to traditional Islamic values, viewing environmental conservation as a religious and ethical duty. A case study of the Kalimantan Rainforest Conservation Project in Indonesia illustrates that integrating technical knowledge with spiritual values can lead to effective natural resource conservation and sustainable development. The findings of this article suggest that Schumacher and Nasr's perspectives can guide environmental policy-making. This article recommends future research to explore the practical application of these thinkers' perspectives in various environmental projects and to conduct comparative studies with other environmental philosophers.