By Muhammad Kabiru Aliyu mni (Editor)
A lecturer in the Accounting Department of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Professor Ahmad Bello Dogarawa has emphasized Islam’s contributions to addressing global environmental challenges.
The University Don stated this in a thought-provoking lecture delivered on environmental pollution and sustainability, at the 2024 Islamic Conference organized by Nasarawa State University Keffi recently.
Professor Dogarawa highlighted human-induced climate change, rising temperatures, and environmental pollution’s devastating impact on ecosystems, social stability, economic equality, and ethics. “These environmental shifts threaten the very foundation of our existence,” he warned.
According to Prof. Dogarawa, Islam views humans as stewards of the Earth, advocating moral, social, and ethical obligations to combat environmental issues. “Islamic teachings emphasize environmental stewardship and resource conservation,” he explained.
The lecture explored key areas, including environmental pollution, defined as changes to natural substances caused by human activities, resulting in harmful effects on health and ecosystems. Islamic doctrines stress the importance of environmental stewardship and resource conservation.
Prof. Dogarawa also emphasized the importance of water preservation, recognizing water as a scarce and vital resource. Islamic texts warn against its contamination, he noted.
Furthermore, Islam promotes the sustainable use of resources and discourages wastefulness, Prof. Dogarawa added. Climate change mitigation requires reducing emissions, transitioning to renewable energy, and implementing green policies.
Climate change, primarily caused by human activities such as fossil fuel combustion, demands collective efforts to mitigate its impacts. The lecture aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing integrated approaches to sustainability.
“Sustainable development rests upon three interconnected pillars: environmental sustainability, economic sustainability, and social sustainability,” Prof. Dogarawa noted.
Prof. Dogarawa called for proactive engagement in sustainability from an Islamic perspective. “Muslims, as Earth stewards, must uphold their commitment to resource conservation and environmental protection,” he urged.
By embracing Islamic teachings on sustainability, individuals and communities can contribute to a balanced future for generations to come.