Why you should care about the environment
This blog has been written in collaboration with Sustainably Muslim, an organisation that aims to see a world in which Muslims are at the forefront of protecting the environment.
Climate change. I can sense your eyes rolling back as you think to yourself, oh, not this again, as you tell yourself how
there are much more important things to worry about; that this is some sort of trivial matter and we, as Muslims, should instead concentrate on other issues like the unfortunate suffering of our brothers and sisters across the world. While these topics are highly concerning and absolutely do warrant our attention, we must also fulfil our duty as muslims to care for the planet in which we live.
Key definitions
Before we dive into the details, I think it is important that we start with the facts: I recognise that the language we use is important and I aim to clear up any common misunderstandings and inaccuracies surrounding climate change so we are all on the same page.
According to Sustainably Muslim, the environment is everything around us: the air, water, land, plants and animals.
Climate change is a long-term shift in global or regional patterns, which is primarily driven by increased levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere from human activity, leading to things like rising temperatures and extreme weather.
The evidence
You might be wondering how this is relevant to us; what are some tangible ways in which climate change affects us in the real world?
Well, consistently rising global average temperatures lead to shrinking glaciers and ice sheets, rising sea levels, and increasing frequency/intensity of heatwaves - all of which are predominantly occurring in the Global South, which is home to Muslim majority countries. According to one research paper, it is predicted that a rise in sea levels and coastal erosion could lead to a loss of 17 percent of land surface and 30 percent of food production by 2050 in Bangladesh (International Monetary Fund, 2019).
Climate change through an Islamic lens
As Muslims, our desire to protect the Earth runs deeper than factual reasoning. Although that is important, we also have a spiritual obligation to guard the Amanah (trust) which Allah has given us to care for the planet that we are temporarily residing in.
Many of the actions of the Prophet (SAW) suggest that we ought to be environmentally conscious. For example, the Prophet (SAW) was known to repair his own clothes, often fixing holes himself with patches of cloth instead of discarding an item.
What can we do to help?
There are many things that we, as individuals, can do to look after the environment. Small things like avoiding overconsumption, reusing plastic packaging and lowering meat consumption offer ways that we can minimise our environmental impact. You could also support the incredible work of Sustainably Muslim by following them on social media or donating to their website.
By actively trying to combat this issue, you are preventing the environmental damage from accumulating into something bigger, which could help save future generations.
Anas ibn Malik reported that the Prophet (SAW) advised: if the Final Hour comes when you have a sapling in your hand, then plant it (Ahmad 12491).
Even when our efforts may appear futile, it is sunnah to care. Discussions around climate change can often leave us feeling hopeless but there is divine reward in each individual act. Collectively, as an ummah, we have the opportunity to make a difference and fulfil our duty.
