In the name of Allah Most Compassionate Most Merciful
GREENING OUR RAMADAN
Allah (swt) tells us: “He is the one who made you khalifahs (vicegerents, stewards, guardians) of the earth” (6:165).
Letter to Mosque/Islamic Center LeadersDear Mosque/Islamic Center Leader:
Assalamu-Alaikum
There is no denying that climate change and environmental degradation are an existential threat to our planet. Scientific studies continuously draw our attention to the perils of global warming. The Paris Climate accord has been the recognition of the dire consequences, especially for the people in countries with little resources.
In August 2015, Muslim scholars meeting in Istanbul issued the “Islamic Declaration on Global Climate Change” which highlights the consequences of humanity’s massive exploitation of Earth. The declaration calls upon Muslims to tackle the habits, mindset, and root causes of climate change, environmental degradation, and loss of biodiversity wherever they can in order to resolve these issues.
Realizing our responsibility toward the preservation and conservation of the environment ISNA in December 21014 established ISNA Green Initiative (Formerly known as Green Masjid Task Force) to create environmental awareness, guide mosques/Islamic centers toward environmentally friendly actions, and promote sustainable practices. Since 2015 ISNA Green Initiative has been conducting “Greening Our Ramadan” campaign to encourage environmentally-friendly practices.
I request that this Ramadan let us live up to our responsibility as caretakers of the earth and join in the ISNA efforts to adopt environmentally friendly practices. I earnestly request that your mosque/Islamic Center join in “Greening our Ramadan Campaign”. Let us all work together to reduce our carbon footprint. Have a blessed Ramadan.
Safaa Zarzour
President, Islamic Society of North America