Voice of British Muslim Women

Natalia Jan, Hounslow South 

In recent years, the need to safeguard the planet has surged as one of the most talked about issues amongst politicians, academics, activists, the media and the public. People across the world are demanding that we take action against the existential threats of climate change and global warming. 

Earth Day serves as a poignant reminder of our responsibility to preserve and protect the environment for current and future generations. As we reflect on the significance of this day, it’s essential to remind ourselves of the teachings of Islam and its profound emphasis on environmental stewardship.

‘And the earth — We have spread it out, and placed therein firm mountains; and We have made to grow therein every kind of beautiful species,

As a means of enlightenment and as a reminder to every servant that turns to God.’

(Holy Qur’an 50:8-9)

According to the Holy Qur’an, everything in the natural world has been meticulously designed with a purpose and operates within a harmonious system to ensure a perfect balance. This divine order encompasses every aspect of creation, from the smallest microorganism to the vast expanses of the cosmos. While we have been blessed with a perfect system, human interference across generations has disrupted this balance. This disruption includes the destruction of plants, the exploitation and extinction of animal species and even the act of taking a human life. Such actions not only violate the sanctity of human creation but undermine the beauty of this perfect system. 

In our modern society, we have witnessed countless instances in which this destruction has been perpetuated by governments and large corporations driven by greed. These entities have chosen to prioritise short-term economic gains over the long-term health of our planet, exploiting our natural resources leading to deforestation and pollution of air and water for ecosystems and human communities alike. As a result, this has exacerbated climate change, which continues to have devastating consequences on our society. 

In Islam, we have been ordered to acts as stewards of the earth and preserve its beauty and resources. We have been entrusted by God to take care of the world that he has created, not as owners but rather as caretakers. 

The Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) stated: “If a Muslim plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person or animal eats from it, all of it is charity on his part” (Bukhari).

The underlying message here, is that any acts of kindness and beneficial deeds towards the environment are considered acts of charity (sadqah). By positively contributing to the ecosystem and helping other living beings, individuals are rewarded spiritually. This should encourage us as Muslims to promote environmental conservation, which includes planting trees, sowing seeds, reducing our carbon footprint and nurturing the natural world. 

As Earth Day 2024 draws closer, let these examples serve as a reminder that we have a duty to collectively protect and safeguard the environment. By aligning our actions with the principles of sustainability and social justice, we can fulfil our duty as stewards of the Earth and leave a legacy of environmental preservation for future generations and fulfil the teachings of Islam.