WEEK 2: Islam and Sustainable Development

In this week, we are taught how Sustainable Development is aligned with the teachings of Islam. After all, the concept was introduced way long ago in the al-Quran and Hadith in over 500 verses.

Islam has mention the right to benefit from the essential environmental elements and resources like water, minerals, land and animals are a right held by all members of society. They are entitled to the benefit subjected to their degree of needs, and must be mindful of its impact to the environment.

Islam calls for efficient use of minerals resource and to minimize waste production while also emphasizing on proper usage of water to ensure water conservation. Islam also has its legislation on preservation of trees and plants in regards of sustainable forestry.

Social responsibility is also tightly knit with Islam. Islam focuses on Rahmatan lil-Alamin with man being the vicegerent (khalifa) on Earth. Man is tasked to fulfill his Amanah as fundamental governance of society and to embrace and apply the concept of Shura when dealing with their responsibilities.

In economic sustainability, Islam promotes development and growth of the economy. Islam actually prohibits poverty as it is in close relation with disbelief (kufr) since resources that are provided on the Earth's surface should be enough for all creatures of the Creator.

That's all for today. As Muslims, we should carry our responsibilities in following the orders of Allah SWT and attain His pleasures by participating in Sustainable Development movement!