What does Islam say about climate change?

Islam is a religion that emphasizes the importance of environmental stewardship and the protection of the natural world. Islam teaches that the earth is a sacred trust from Allah (God) and it is the responsibility of humankind to act as stewards of the environment. The Quran reminds us that the earth has been created with balance and harmony and that humans should not disturb this balance.

Climate change, which is caused by human activities such as deforestation and the burning of fossil fuels, is a clear violation of this trust. Muslims are therefore called upon to take action to mitigate climate change and to protect the earth for future generations. This includes adopting sustainable practices, conserving natural resources, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and promoting environmental justice.

As the Quran states, "And do not corrupt the earth after its reformation, and call upon Him in fear and hope. Indeed, the mercy of Allah is near to the doers of good" (Quran 7:56).

Collective action is necessary to address climate change and promote sustainable development, and governments and institutions have an important role to play in implementing policies and regulations that promote environmental protection and sustainability.

Furthermore, Islam emphasizes the importance of social justice and equity in addressing environmental issues. Muslims are called upon to prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable populations in their efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development.

Taking action on climate change is an Islamic obligation

While the Quran and Islamic teachings emphasize the importance of environmental conservation and the role of human beings as stewards of the Earth, it is not explicitly stated that taking action on climate change is an Islamic obligation.

However, Muslims are called upon to do their part in protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development, which includes taking action on climate change.

Furthermore, Islam emphasizes the concept of "amanah", which means trust or responsibility. This means that humans have been entrusted with the responsibility of caring for the Earth and its resources.

Therefore, it can be argued that taking action on climate change is a moral obligation for Muslims, as it is part of their responsibility to protect the Earth and its resources for future generations.

In addition, Muslims are called upon to prioritize social justice and equity in their efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development.

Climate change disproportionately affects the most vulnerable populations, including people with low-income, marginalized communities, and future generations. Therefore, taking action on climate change is not only a moral obligation but also a means of fulfilling the Islamic principles of social justice and equity.

• The Importance of Environmental Stewardship in Islam

• The Role of Tawhid in Environmental Protection

• Individual Action to Combat Climate Change

• International Action on Climate Change

The Importance of Environmental Stewardship in Islam

Islam places great emphasis on the importance of environmental stewardship and protecting the natural world. The Quran contains numerous references to the importance of preserving the environment and taking care of the earth's resources.

For example, in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 60, Allah says: "Eat and drink from the provision of Allah, and do not commit abuse on the earth, spreading corruption."

These verses and others like them emphasize the importance of responsible stewardship of the environment and highlight the potential consequences of neglecting our duties to the earth.

There are several teachings in Islam that encourage environmental conservation and sustainability. For example, the Quran mentions the importance of not wasting resources: "And do not waste, for Allah does not like the wasteful" (Quran 6:141).

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also emphasized the importance of protecting the environment, saying, "The Earth is a mosque and everything in it is sacred" (Sahih Muslim).

Responsibility to Protect the Earth

Islam recognizes the significant impact that human activity is having on the planet and the potential consequences for future generations.

Climate change, in particular, is seen as a major threat to the planet and to the well-being of all living beings. The Quran acknowledges the interconnectedness of all living things and the importance of maintaining balance and harmony in the natural world.

In Surah Al-An'am, verse 165, Allah says: "And it is He who has made you successors upon the earth and has raised some of you above others in degrees that He may try you through what He has given you. Indeed, your Lord is swift in penalty; but indeed, He is Forgiving and Merciful."

This verse emphasizes the responsibility that human beings have been given to care for the earth as stewards and highlights the need for careful management of resources to ensure sustainability.

Islam teaches that all living beings have a right to live and flourish on earth. Muslims are encouraged to protect wildlife and biodiversity and to avoid practices that harm or destroy ecosystems.

In Islam, charity and giving are highly valued. Muslims are encouraged to give to charitable causes, including those related to environmental protection and conservation.

The Role of Tawhid in Environmental Protection

The concept of tawhid, or the oneness of God, is seen as a foundation for environmental protection in Islam. This principle emphasizes the interconnectedness of all living things and the importance of maintaining balance and harmony in the natural world.

According to Islamic teachings, humans are stewards or trustees of the Earth and have a responsibility to protect and care for the environment.

The Quran and the Hadith (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad) contain numerous verses and teachings that emphasize the importance of preserving the natural world and using its resources in a sustainable and responsible manner.

In Surah Al-Hajj, verse 18, Allah says: "Do you not see that to Allah prostrates whoever is in the heavens and whoever is on the earth and the sun, the moon, the stars, the mountains, the trees, the moving creatures and many of the people? But upon many the punishment has been justified. And he whom Allah humiliates – for him there is no bestower of honour. Indeed, Allah does what He wills."

This verse highlights the interconnectedness of all living things and emphasizes the importance of treating the natural world with respect and care.

In addition to the Quran, Islamic traditions and teachings emphasize the importance of preserving natural resources and avoiding waste.

The Prophet Muhammad reportedly said, "Whoever plants a tree and it matures, Allah plants for him a tree in Paradise" (Al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 1788). This saying emphasizes the importance of planting trees and preserving the natural world for future generations.

Abu Huraira reported that the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) shared a story: A man was walking and became thirsty. He found a well, climbed down, and drank from it.

When he came back up, he saw a dog panting and licking the moist ground due to extreme thirst. The man realized that the dog was as thirsty as he had been. So, he went back into the well, filled his shoe with water, and carried it out in his mouth for the dog to drink.

Allah appreciated this act of kindness and forgave the man’s sins. When the Prophet’s companions asked if doing good to animals also earns a reward, he confirmed that doing good to any living being indeed brings a reward. (Bukhari)

Individual Action to Combat Climate Change

Islam emphasizes the importance of individual action in promoting sustainability and combating climate change. This includes reducing consumption and waste, conserving energy, and promoting renewable energy sources.

Muslims are encouraged to live a simple and sustainable lifestyle and to avoid extravagance and waste.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: "The best of you are those who are the best to their families, and I am the best to my family. The most beloved of you to me are those who are the best to their women, and I am the best to my women. And the best of you are those who are the best to their neighbours."

• Reduce energy consumption: Muslims can reduce their energy consumption by turning off lights and appliances when not in use, using energy-efficient products, and using public transportation, cycling or walking instead of driving.

• Reduce waste: Muslims can reduce waste by recycling, composting, and avoiding single-use plastics.

• Use water wisely: Muslims can reduce water usage by fixing leaks, taking shorter showers, and using water-efficient appliances.

• Plant trees: Muslims can plant trees to help combat deforestation and reduce carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. This is also considered a form of charity in Islam.

• Spread awareness: Muslims can spread awareness about climate change and the importance of protecting the environment by sharing information, volunteering for environmental organizations and participating in environmental campaigns.

Social Justice and Equity

Islam emphasizes the importance of social justice and equity in addressing environmental issues. Muslims are called upon to prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable populations in their efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development.

The Quran says: "And give the relative his right, and the people with low-income and the traveller, and do not spend wastefully" (17:26).

The Prophet (SAW) often asked his companions if they had any dreams that could be beneficial.

One day, a man responded to the Prophet (SAW): “O Messenger of Allah! I had a very unusual dream last night.”

He explained: “In my dream, I was praying behind a tree, which was leading the prayer. As I prostrated, the tree also prostrated. Then, I heard the tree making a prayer.”

The tree prayed: “O Allah, please reward me for this and remove a sin from me because of this. Accept this from me as you accepted from your servant David. May blessings and peace be upon him.” (Tirmidhi)

Islam views climate change as a serious issue that requires collective action to address. Muslims are urged to take individual and collective action to combat climate change and promote sustainable development, while prioritizing social justice and equity in their efforts.

By following Islamic principles and taking proactive steps to promote sustainability, we can create a better and more sustainable future for all.

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