NTI Conversations- A Buddhist Perspective on a future beyond Extractivism

A Buddhist Perspective on a future beyond Extractivism

• Presented by Brother Tenzin and NTI students Jacob Tan and Gabriela Guerrero Alonso.   
• 20 August 2025
• 2-3.30pm (AEST)

This event will be held online via zoom. A zoom link will be sent the day prior and the day of the event

Environmental crises are affecting everyone on this planet and the effects of these crises are becoming more palpable. The logic of extractivism often underpins our current crises, with industrialisation, population growth and urbanization, rapidly globalising the world. Such a logic causes significant ecological and social imbalances, but also highlights the spiritual aspects of our time and relationships with the environment and other beings. Join Brother Tenzin (Dr. Alex Anderson), and NTI students Jacob Tan and Gabriela Guerrero Alonso, to explore the holistic potential of Buddhist teachings in healing our illusion of separation from each other and the natural world.

About the Presenters:

Brother Tenzin (Dr. Alex Anderson) is an Australian Buddhist monk and an ecologist specialising in climate change impacts on biodiversity, deep ecology and environmental activism. Based at Gaia Forest – a remaining rainforest in mid-north NSW – he works at the intersection of environmental and human spiritual conservation, applying mindfulness to living in harmony within oneself, community and the natural world.

NTI student Jacob Tan is a former healthcare worker in marginalised communities, and Buddhist Chan philosopher who sees Mother Nature as a great teacher. Jacob believes the climate crisis is ultimately a spiritual crisis, and that recognising the interconnected nature of all life should be humanity’s priority.

NTI student Gabriela Guerrero Alonso is a sociologist and environmental advocate who works to amplify marginalised voices and foster systemic change. Her work explores the intersection of ecological justice, spirituality, and community empowerment, based on her experience working alongside Indigenous communities and small-scale farmers in Colombia.

Tickets are free, however registration is essential.