Religious people (especially those that interpret everything literally) seem quite indifferent when it comes to environmental issues and the need for action to solve them. A lot of the pressing environmental issues today demand momentous action, otherwise we will cross a threshold of no return where technology could not save us in time. Not to mention that even today the world's resources are being depleted faster than they naturally replenish. This coupled with almost runaway/disproportionate population growths in developing countries we would need more than one Earth to meet ample needs if things keep going as they are.
How does religion play into this? Well I've been thinking on this issue a bit and I have come to a conclusion, if you will bear with me. A few hours ago I remembered a evangelical sermon that I watched over YouTube (can't remember its name and don't ask me why I was watching it in the first place) and it was basically a guy rambling on about how global warming and resource depletion were all BS because the Bible clearly states that God will give us everything we need. I was pretty much, "Wat? True story?" And, lo, behold:
http://bible.cc/philippians/4-19.htm
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http://bible.cc/romans/8-32.htm
The only literal interpretation I can gather from that is simply this: If god gave us his son then he will give everything else, because nothing is more precious than his son.
This may be only Bible related, however since Christianity is the most dominant religion out there what they believe really makes a difference, because their beliefs might dissuade them from the necessary actions needed simply based on the fact that their belief tells them that the problem does not exist in the first place, or that god will fix it or give it to us (I do believe that Islam and Judaism share a view that is in common, knowing their history).
I realize that there will be religious people who do acknowledge these issues and press for action, and the likely-hood of them being here and telling me that my conclusion is BS based on the fact that they are here is higher than those who don't. But please consider that not all billions who are Christian or whatever have the privilege of a decent education and awareness of the world (plus internet), and that the word of the bible (as sad as it may be) is the extent of their education. Or if you can't read and your spiritual guide (pastor, father, etc...) tells you god will take care of everything as long as you have faith.
I feel like there would be more pressure on governments and corporations if people were more united in their worries for the environment, and it is my conclusion that religious beliefs (but on of many) play a big part undermining efforts for change, and since they are the majority, greatly so.
- Discuss