Islam and Sustainable Development

Week 2: Islam and Sustainable Development

Sustainable development is a fundamental principle in Islam, as it emphasizes the importance of taking care of the environment, society, and economy in a way that ensures the needs of the present are balanced with the needs of future generations. In Islam, this principle is often referred to as al-Taqwa (awareness and mindfulness of God and His creations) and al-Adl (justice).

According to Islamic teachings, maintaining a sustainable and equitable society is important for the well-being of all individuals and nations. The Quran emphasizes the importance of:

i. preserving the environment;

“…And do not commit abuse on the earth, spreading corruption.” (Quran, 2:60)

“And We made the sky a protected ceiling, but they, from its signs, are turning away.” (Quran, 21:32)

The corruption in question based on the above Quranic verses refers to the environmental corruption that has led to critical issues such as mass deforestation, illegal logging, ecosystem destruction, ozone depletion, etc. Thus, Islam places fundamental values on preserving the environment and caring for the natural world.

ii. conserving natural resources;

“And it is He who sends down rain from the sky, and We produce thereby the growth of all things. We produce from it greenery from which We produce grains arranged in layers. And from the palm trees – of its emerging fruit are clusters hanging low. And [We produce] gardens of grapevines and olives and pomegranates, similar yet varied. Look at [each of] its fruit when it yields and [at] its ripening. Indeed in that are signs for a people who believe.” (Quran, 6:99)

The Qur’an here talks more in-depth about plants and fruits mentioning how Allah has created grapevines, olives, and pomegranates. Allah’s intricate creation and unique design are discussed here as a reminder that only He can create what is perfect on this earth, hence human beings, as the vicegerents on Earth, must conserve the natural resources and make use of them efficiently as a sign of gratitude and taqwa to Allah SWT.

iii. and promoting social justice.

“He (the Messenger) enjoins them to do good and forbids them to do all that is unlawful, makes lawful for them all that is pure and unlawful that is filthy, removes their burdens and entanglements in which they are involved.” (Quran, 7:157) 

Islam is a religion that emphasizes the principles of justice, moderation, and respect for all of God's creations. It places emphasis on social justice, promoting equality and equity regardless of the differences in aspects such as gender, race, social status, etc; that every individual deserves the opportunity or support based on their needs to have impartial access to resources.

Sustainable Development in Islam

In practice, sustainable development is an essential part of Islamic thought, which has been incorporated into various Islamic institutions and policies:

i. Social Sustainability in Islam:

🝓 the concept of Khalifah to fulfill the role as Allah's vicegerents and safeguard the world

🝓 the concept of mushawwarah (consultation) in seeking out the opinions of others and considering a wide range of perspectives and viewpoints before making important decisions

🝓 the ukhuwwah (Islamic brotherhood)

ii. Economic Sustainability in Islam:

♾ zakat and sadaqah

♾ takaful (Islamic security)

♾ waqaf (charitable endowment)

♾ prohibition of riba' (interest)

♾ tarkah (inheritance)

iii. Environmental Sustainability in Islam:

☋ the concept of khalq (creation)

☋ the concept of mizan (ecological balance)

☋ sustainable use of natural resources

In summary, sustainable development is a fundamental principle in Islam, which prioritizes the preservation and sustainability of the environment, society, and economy for current and future generations. It is an important aspect of Islamic thought that has been incorporated into various Islamic institutions and policies, and is an ongoing area of discussion and development within the Muslim community.