Environmental Sustainability in Islam and Responsibility of Man as Allah’s Vicegerent on the Earth

Abstract

Environmental sustainability is one of the major responsibilities of man. It means that the man is responsible to maintain balance between utilization of natural resources and conservation of natural environment of this planet. A healthy and hygienic environment can develop healthy and strong body and mind. The divine obligation of vicegerency of man demands preservation of the environment and a prudent approach to utilize natural resources. The exalted Book of Allah and the blessed Seerah of His Messenger Muhammad (peace be upon him) offer comprehensive guidelines and solutions to protect the constantly deteriorating environment of our planet. A descriptive and analytical methodology will be utilized in this research. The present work aims to highlight the causes of one of the major types of environmental pollution i.e water pollution as well as wasteful utilization of water and their alarming consequences like global scarcity of water, drought, endangered wildlife and marine life and numerous health issues. The purpose of this research is to explore the practical solutions to maintain environmental sustainability in the light of the Qur’an and Prophetic Seerah. The responsibility of man as Allah’s vicegerent of the Earth regarding conservation and restoration of water resources will be focused as per Islamic directives.