Planetary Crises Summit – A Buddhist Approach for a Better Future
Theme 2026 - Imagine the future we want to create
“To care for the environment is to care for all living beings and the future generations yet to come.” - H.H. the 14. Dalai Lama
A hybrid European multi-center event hosted by Nalanda Monastery & locally at Maitreya Instituut Amsterdam. Our positive influence can support a world in turmoil. The follow-up of this event will be on Sunday September 20 – our newly set up Active Hope Circle guided by Rebecca Bouhuijs and Jennie Schouten.
Program of the weekend
The themes of the days
Saturday, Sept 5: Imagination
The power of imagination helps creating the future we want to see for our children. The future doesn’t just happen, it is created by our visions, dreams and imagination. In order to create a better future, we first need to imagine it.
Sunday, Sept 6: Wisdom and Compassion
Buddhas teachings of interdependence and compassion can inspire us to initiate the change we like to see in the world by transforming our own mistaken views.
“The ecological and social crises we currently face arise from a mistaken view of separation. Buddhist philosophy offers a corrective perspective of interdependence and compassion, and therefore a Buddhist-informed transformation of consciousness is a powerful means towards resolving the crisis." - Andy Wistreich
Contributors
- H.E Serkong Tsenshap Rinpoche - Rinpoche is recognized as the incarnation of the assistant tutor of the 14th Dalai Lama. Currently, Rinpoche teaches at Dharma Centers worldwide, combining his profound Buddhist knowledge and practice with an understanding of the modern world. Founder of Serkong Institute for Buddhist Studies.
- Geshe Tenzin Zopa - Known from the documentary film ''Unmistaken Child", he holds a Geshe degree from Sera Jey Monastic University. Born in the remote Himalayan region of Tsum, he was ordained at the age of 9 in Kopan Monastery and lived under the guidance of the Great Mahasiddha Geshe Lama Konchog. FPMT touring teacher.
- Rob Hobkins - Activist and writer on environmental issues, based in Totnes, England. Founder of the Transition movement in 2005. Author of six books on environmentalism and activism.
- Ven. Amy Miller - American Buddhist teacher integrating the Dharma in everyday life. Hospice counselor, Buddhist Center management, leading meditation and pilgrimage throughout the world.
- Ven. Tenzin Sherap - Monk at Nalanda Monastery and a buddhist practitioner since 30 years. Previously he practiced as a physician specializing in acupuncture and homeopathy. His life is driven by a deep commitment to a harmonious relationship between humans and the other inhabitants of our special planet.
- David Midgley - A teacher of Buddhist philosophy and meditation and a social and environmental activist, David's work includes Compassion Cultivation Training, Eco-Dharma, and Global Social Witnessing; his main project at the moment is Regeneration UK.
- Andy Wistreich - Buddhist teacher, Retreat leader, Author, XR Buddhists, Dharma activist. Andy has led training seminars for FPMT teachers, co-founder of the International Kalacakra Network.
Schedule
Saturday
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10.30 – 13.00 Central event is hosted by Nalanda and we will join at our center in Amsterdam to watch on Zoom. Teachings/presentations, guided meditations by FPMT teachers and Nalanda monks. Speakers: Andy Wistreich, David Midgley and others (to be confirmed soon).
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13.00-15.30 joint potluck lunch and dialogue, reflection and sharing at our center
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15.30-18.00 In-Depth Meditation Training Meditation & Teaching with Ven. Losang Gendun (live at our center)
Sunday
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10.30 – 13.00 hrs Central event hosted by Nalanda – online only
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🡪 We will follow up on September 20 with the dialogue in the Active Hope Circle
Why participate?
Because this event is an opportunity to connect the Dharma to what is happening in the world and to connect with like-minded practitioners and find inspiration and support.
Suggested donation
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The suggested donation is €15 both for the online event and taking part in afternoon at our center including the IDMT lesson of Ven. Losang Gendun.
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If you are already an IDMT student, this event is on a voluntary donation basis. Click here to make a donation.
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If you only like to participate in the morning online classes, then please register at https://nalanda-monastery.eu/fpmt-planetary-crisis-summit-2026/