Islamic Ethics and Climate Change: A Sustainable Future

Abstract

The intensifying climate crisis demands global responses that integrate ethical, spiritual, and practical dimensions to ensure sustainability. Islamic ethics, deeply rooted in the Quran and Hadith, provides a unique framework for addressing environmental challenges. Concepts such as stewardship (khalifah), balance (mizan), and prohibition of waste (israf) underpin a moral obligation to protect the environment. This study investigates how these Islamic ethical principles can be incorporated into global climate action and sustainability policies. By analyzing Islamic legal and ethical frameworks, the paper highlights the potential of Islamic teachings to foster environmentally responsible behavior at both individual and societal levels. Moreover, the study offers a comparative analysis of Islamic environmental ethics and contemporary global approaches, proposing actionable insights for integrating faith-based ethics into international climate strategies. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how Islamic ethics can serve as a catalyst for addressing the environmental challenges of the 21st century. In the face of escalating environmental degradation and climate change, there is an urgent need to explore ethical frameworks that can support global sustainability efforts. Islamic ethics, derived from the Quran, Hadith, and classical jurisprudence, offers a compelling and holistic approach to environmental responsibility. Central to this is the concept of khalifah (stewardship), where humans are entrusted with the care of Earth, emphasizing balance (mizan) and the prohibition of excess and waste (israf). This paper explores the potential of Islamic ethical principles to influence global climate change mitigation strategies. Through a detailed examination of key Islamic concepts and their relevance to modern environmental issues, the study outlines how Islamic teachings can inform policy, foster sustainable practices, and promote social responsibility. By integrating Islamic ethics with contemporary climate strategies, this study positions Islam as a vital contributor to the global discourse on climate change, aiming to bridge the gap between spirituality, ethics, and environmental sustainability.