Climate Change: A Contemporary Analysis in the Light of Islamic Teachings

Abstract

Climate change is a global crisis that has placed serious question marks on ecosystems, human health, food and water security, and the future of humanity. This article presents the Islamic concept of environmental protection in the light of the Qur’an and Sunnah, highlighting that Islam emphasizes the preservation of nature, moderation in resource usage, and the principle of human responsibility. Islamic Environmental Ethics: Faith-Based Solutions to Climate Change At a time when global institutions are seeking sustainable solutions to climate change, Islamic teachings offer meaningful and ethical solutions to this pressing crisis.

Introduction

In the contemporary era, climate change has become a universal issue, with its effects being felt in every corner of the world. The rise in global temperatures, melting glaciers, erratic rainfall, intense heatwaves, water scarcity, cyclones, crop destruction, and other devastating phenomena are clear indicators that nature is displeased with human behavior.

Governments, scientists, environmentalists, and international organizations are striving to address this crisis. However, unless humanity recognizes its moral and religious responsibility, a lasting solution will remain elusive. Herein lies the guidance of Islam, a complete code of life, which can lead us out of this crisis.

1. Understanding Climate Change and the Global Situation

Climate change refers to long-term shifts in Earth’s environmental conditions, primarily due to human interference in natural systems—such as deforestation, the use of fossil fuels, industrial pollution, and the emission of carbon gases.

Effects of the Climate Crisis

• Continuous rise in global temperatures
• Rapid melting of glaciers
• Drought and irregular rainfall
• Scarcity of potable water
• Crop failure and food insecurity
• Negative impacts on human health

These are not just scientific results but symptoms of a moral failure on humanity’s part.

Contemporary Reports and Evidence

• According to the IPCC (2023)[1], Earth’s temperature has increased by 1.2°C over the last 150 years.
• The United Nations calls it “the greatest threat to humanity’s existence.”

This situation poses a direct threat to human survival, global economies, and the Earth’s natural balance.

2. The Status of Environment and Nature in Islamic Teachings

3. a) Environmental Consciousness in the Qur’an

The Qur’an contains numerous verses on nature, the universe, and the environment, discussing God’s creation, balance, order, and human responsibilities. Natural elements like the atmosphere, water, land, and air are called “signs” (ayat) of God.

The Qur’an declares humans as stewards (khalifah) of the Earth:

“Indeed, I will make upon the earth a vicegerent.” ([2])

This appoints humans with the responsibility to preserve the Earth with justice and balance—not to exploit or corrupt it.

“And the sky He raised and set the balance, so do not transgress in the balance.” ([3])

This verse underlines the concept of environmental balance. Disrupting this balance is a result of human excess and negligence.

“And do not cause corruption on the Earth after its reformation.” ([4])

This verse establishes the moral foundation of environmental ethics: Islah (reformation) means preserving the natural order, and fasad (corruption) refers to disrupting it. The verse directly condemns environmental destruction.

1. b) Prophetic Teachings on Nature

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ demonstrated environmental respect, moderation, and conservation as part of his Sunnah.

• “Develop the land.” ([5])
• “Planting a tree is a continuous charity.” ([6])
• “Develop the Earth and do not cause corruption.” ([7])
• “Do not waste water even if you are by a flowing river.” ([8])
• “If the Day of Judgment comes and you have a plant in your hand, plant it.” ([9])

These Hadiths promote not just environmental consciousness but also action—even at the end of time.

3. Causes of Climate Change: An Islamic Perspective

According to Islamic teachings, the root cause of corruption on Earth is human disobedience and irresponsible behavior:

“Corruption has appeared on land and sea because of what people’s hands have earned, so that they may taste part of what they have done and perhaps return (to righteousness).” ([10])

1. a) Wastefulness and Extravagance

The Qur’an denounces extravagance:

“Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils.” ([11])

Overuse of water, energy, food, and fuel contributes significantly to climate disruption.

1. b) Materialism and Capitalism

The current global system, driven by profit and materialism, exploits nature instead of respecting it. Islam proposes a system based on balance, justice, modesty, and accountability.

4. Islamic Jurisprudence and Environmental Justice

Islam views environmental justice not just as a scientific or political issue but as a Shari‘ah-based moral duty.

(1) Maqasid al-Shari‘ah (Objectives of Islamic Law) and Environmental Protection

The five core objectives of Islamic law include:

• Protection of Life (Hifz al-Nafs): Pollution endangers human life.
• Protection of Wealth (Hifz al-Mal): Waste harms the economy.
• Protection of Intellect (Hifz al-‘Aql): Environmental awareness depends on sound intellect.
• Protection of Progeny (Hifz al-Nasl): Future generations need a safe environment.
• Protection of Faith (Hifz al-Din): Respect for nature is part of Islamic faith.

These demonstrate that environmental protection is integral to Islamic law.

(2) The Principle of “Sadd al-Dhara’i” (Blocking the Means)

A principle in Islamic jurisprudence, Sadd al-Dhara’i, prevents actions that lead to harm, including:

• Toxic industrial emissions
• Unrestrained deforestation
• Excessive plastic usage

(3) Waqf (Endowments) and Environmental Welfare

Historically, Waqf wasn’t limited to mosques or schools—

• Grazing lands, canals, gardens, trees, and wells were endowed for public welfare.
• Today, this tradition can be revived through “Green Waqf.”

5. Environmental Stewardship in Islamic History

Examples from Islamic civilization show strong environmental awareness:

• Environmental waqf (e.g., gardens, wells, grazing lands)
• Prohibition of hunting and tree-cutting in Haram (Makkah and Madinah)
• Agricultural reforms during the reigns of Caliphs Umar and Ali (RA)
• Eco-friendly systems in Andalus and Baghdad

6. Contemporary Islamic Environmental Awakening

While global institutions work on climate change, the Islamic world is also showing significant progress in environmental awareness.

1. Islamic Declaration on Global Climate Change (2015)[12]

In 2015, prominent scholars and environmentalists issued the Islamic Declaration in Istanbul, calling for:

• Global climate justice
• Return to nature-friendly lifestyles
• Criticism of capitalism as a root cause
• Affirmation of human stewardship (Khilafah) on Earth
• Advocacy for moderation and resource conservation as Islamic values

This declaration shows that Islamic principles align with contemporary ecological needs.

2. Practical Steps in the Islamic World

Indonesia – Green Fatwa:

• Deforestation declared religiously prohibited
• Environmental protection recognized as a Shari‘ah obligation
• Violating environmental laws labeled sinful

Turkey – Eco-Friendly Mosques:

• Use of solar energy
• Water-saving systems
• Eco-friendly construction materials
• Environmental education campaigns in mosques

Pakistan – Billion Tree Tsunami:

• Over a billion trees planted
• Forest restoration and soil erosion control
• Public mobilization using Islamic principles

Saudi Arabia – Eco-Initiatives in the Two Holy Mosques:

• Establishment of plastic-free zones
• Use of green energy
• Cleanliness systems during Hajj and Umrah
• Recycling and green project financing through Islamic banking

7. Environmental Problems and Islamic Solutions

Role of Scholars and Religious Institutions

• Include environmental topics in Friday sermons
• Integrate environmental education in Islamic schools and universities
• Organize scholarly conferences on Islam and climate change
• Make mosques green zones (solar energy, greenery, water conservation)

Conclusion and Recommendations

Islam is a complete and holistic system that honors not just humans but all elements of nature. It goes beyond rituals to offer a comprehensive civilization. Climate change is a global challenge that must be tackled on scientific, moral, legal, and spiritual levels—and only Islam provides a complete framework for that.

Recommendations for Environmental Protection:

1. Integration of Islamic Teachings:
   Incorporate Islamic principles into national education and environmental policies.
2. Research Projects:
   Encourage university research on “Islam and the Environment.”
3. Public Awareness Campaigns:
   Launch campaigns on tree plantation, water conservation, and cleanliness.
4. Role of Scholars:
   Present environmental issues as part of Amr bil Ma‘ruf (enjoining good) in sermons.
5. Islamic Lifestyle:
   Promote simple, balanced, and sustainable living in light of Qur’an and Sunnah.
6. Islamic Climate Charter:
   Develop a unified “Islamic Climate Charter” under the OIC platform.
7. Green Financing:
   Introduce “Green Financing” schemes through Islamic banking for eco-projects.
8. Global Leadership:
   Muslim countries should play a leading role globally in climate change solutions.

Sources and References:

1. القرآن الکریم
2. Abu Dawood
3. Musnad Ahmad
4. Ibn Majah
5. https://www.ipcc.ch/2023/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
6. Islamic Declaration on Global Climate Change (2015). (IFEES)

[1] –         https://www.ipcc.ch/2023/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

[2] –         Quran: Surah Al-Baqarah: 30

[3] –           Quran: Surah Ar-Rahman: 7–8

[4] –           Quran: Surah Al-A‘raf: 56

[5] –           Abu Dawood

[6] –           Musnad Ahmad

[7] –           Abu Dawood

[8] –           Ibn Majah

[9] –           Musnad Ahmad

[10] –          Quran: Surah Ar-Rum: 41

[11] –          Quran: Surah Al-Isra: 27

[12] –        Islamic Declaration on Global Climate Change (2015). Islamic Foundation for Ecology and Environmental Sciences (IFEES)