Islamic law (Sharia) strongly emphasizes environmental stewardship and conservation, framing it as a religious duty rooted in principles found in the Quran and Sunnah. Here are the key aspects of how Islamic teachings address these issues:
1. Humans as Stewards (Khalifah)

• The Quran designates humans as khalifah (stewards) of the Earth, entrusting them with the responsibility to care for and maintain it.
  Quranic Verse: “It is He who has made you successors upon the earth” (Surah Al-An’am 6:165).
• This stewardship entails sustainable use of resources and avoiding harm to the environment.

2. Prohibition of Wastefulness

• Islam forbids extravagance and waste. This principle extends to conserving natural resources like water, energy, and food. Quranic Verse: “Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils” (Surah Al-Isra 17:27).
• The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized moderation, even in acts of worship. For instance, he instructed the conservation of water during ablution, even at a flowing river.

3. Protection of Natural Resources

• Islamic law promotes the preservation of natural habitats, including trees, animals, and water bodies. The concept of hima (protected area) in Islamic tradition involves designating certain zones for conservation and sustainable use.
  • The Prophet established protected areas (hima) for grazing and forestry to prevent overexploitation.

4. Kindness to Animals

• Islam mandates the humane treatment of animals, prohibiting cruelty and wasteful slaughter. Animals are seen as part of Allah’s creation and deserve respect. Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever kills a sparrow or anything bigger than that without a just cause, Allah will hold him accountable on the Day of Judgment.” (Sunan An-Nasa’i).

5. Balance (Mizan)

• The Quran emphasizes maintaining balance (mizan) in nature. Disruption of this balance through pollution, deforestation, or overuse of resources is considered unjust. Quranic Verse: “And He has set up the balance, so do not transgress in the balance.” (Surah Ar-Rahman 55:7-8).

6. Accountability and Reward

• Islamic teachings emphasize that humans will be held accountable for their actions concerning the environment. Acts of planting trees, caring for animals, and protecting nature are considered forms of charity (sadaqah jariyah), bringing ongoing rewards. Hadith: The Prophet said, “If a Muslim plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person, or an animal eats from it, it is regarded as a charitable gift for him.” (Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim).

7. Collective Responsibility

• Caring for the environment is not just an individual obligation but a collective one. Communities are encouraged to work together to protect and sustain their shared resources.

In summary, Islamic law integrates environmental stewardship into its moral framework, advocating for sustainable living, conservation of resources, and kindness to all forms of life as acts of devotion to Allah.