| Feature Item |
| Environmentalism – How Muslims can get on board Wed 20 Oct 2004 |
| The transformation of the current status of humanity to a life in harmony Â… depends on whether or not we really want to live in such a world |
As human activity eats away at more of the earths resources, and as the superficial mindset of sustained economic growth leads society to pollute the earth, air and water, and as life quickens, so too is there an increasing need to reflect on the direction that humanity has chosen to go.
We share this planet with millions of other species and whilst, according to Islam, human beings have rights, so too does the rest of creation and it is our responsibility as guardians of the earth to ensure that these rights are protected.
"It is He Who hath made you (His) agents, inheritors of the earth: He hath raised you in ranks, some above others: that He may try you in the gifts He hath given you: for thy Lord is quick in punishment: yet He is indeed Oft-forgiving, Most Merciful"
The Holy Quran [6:165]
We live in a world in which corporate and political pressures cause our food to be genetically manipulated, and violence used to secure polluting energy resources despite the existing alternatives; this world of ours, where corporate advertising bombards us senseless, and where factory farming and animal cruelty is the norm.
The neglect on the part of Muslims in fulfilling our responsibility to uphold the rights of all of creation fortunately does not reflect the enormous potential that we have in contributing to the well-being of this beautiful planet we inhabit.
The formation of local Islamic environmental groups has been a welcome contribution of Muslims in the UK, and has facilitated several positive developments. Such groups meet regularly to discuss environmental issues and explore the many contributions they can make in their constituencies; for example, organising an educational event, producing literature on Islam and the environment, and planting trees in an organic farm.
The Islamic Foundation for Ecology and Environmental Sciences (IFEES) has already set up a London-based group, LINE (The London Islamic Network for the Environment) to promote good practice in the environment.
IFEES has also been actively campaigning for a ban on GM foods since 1998, and has produced teaching resources, conducted international workshops on the Islamic approach to sustainability, and is now exploring the possibility of undergoing numerous projects for the benefit of groups and individuals within the UK. By offering environmental workshops and eco-camps, promoting sustainable organic farming practices, and producing a quarterly environmental newsletter for the public, IFEES has transformed small steps into milestones
As more Muslims come forward to actively participate in building a sustainable world, the positive contribution that we can make to all of creation including ourselves and our children will grow. The transformation of the current status of humanity to a life in harmony with the rest of creation depends on whether or not we really want to live in such a world. There are many ways that we can participate – from adapting our lifestyle, to linking up with like minded people. The ball rests in our court.
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To find out more about LINE (The London Islamic Network for the Environment) and their open monthly meetings, please call 0845 456 3960.
If you are interested in setting up a local Islamic environmental group in your own area, please call 0845 456 3960.
To support IFEES' educational and campaign work, click here. |
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