Damaging the Environment Betrays Humanity's Mandate as Khalifah

In the midst of an increasingly evident ecological crisis, the impacts of which are claiming many human lives, Islam has long reminded us that caring for the earth is not just a matter of social ethics, but part of safeguarding the religion itself. As explained by Syekh Yusuf Al-Qaradhawi, every act that preserves the environment is a form of obedience, while any damage caused by humans betrays the mandate of stewardship entrusted by Allah SWT.

He explains that all efforts to preserve the environment are equivalent to efforts to safeguard the religion. The teaching of environmental protection falls into a very fundamental category within the faith. This is because sinful acts that pollute the environment tarnish the substance of true religiosity and indirectly negate the purpose of human existence on the face of the earth. Such acts also deviate from Allah SWT’s command in the context of good relations with fellow beings.

Arbitrary acts of environmental destruction are tantamount to denying justice and benevolence, both of which are commands from Allah SWT that humanity must carry out. Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala says: ‘Indeed, Allah commands justice, benevolence, and giving to relatives, and forbids immorality, bad conduct, and oppression. He admonishes you that perhaps you will be reminded’ (QS An-Nahl, Verse 90).

Acts of environmental destruction also tarnish the function of stewardship placed upon humanity, because this earth is not their property, but belongs to Allah SWT. Humans, as stewards on earth, are required to carry out all of Allah SWT’s commands in accordance with the laws of His creation.