Rediscovery and Revival in Islamic Environmental Law: Back to the Future of Nature's Trust

This book explores the intersection of Islamic law, common law, and environmental law, proposing a paradigm shift to promote a better future for environmental law in Muslim countries by recognizing the contributions of both history and spirituality.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 187 pages
Publication date: 08 September 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The potential for fostering a harmonious relationship between religions and advocating for the effective protection of our climate system is immense. Situated at the crossroads of diverse worlds, this book emerges as a multidisciplinary exploration, delving into the realms of Islamic law, common law, and environmental law. By taking a retrospective glance at the past, present, and future, the author proposes a transformative paradigm shift, beginning from the shared foundations to envision a brighter future for environmental law in Muslim countries. As the pioneering work in comparing Shari'a and common law in the field of environmental protection, it offers a novel approach to comparative environmental law by acknowledging the profound contributions of both history and spirituality.

Introduction:
The relationship between religions and the environment has been a subject of profound interest and debate throughout history. While religions have often been associated with environmental stewardship and conservation, there have also been instances where religious beliefs and practices have contributed to environmental degradation and climate change. Recognizing the complexities and nuances of this relationship is crucial for promoting a harmonious and sustainable future.

Common Ground between Religions:
Despite the differences in religious beliefs and practices, there are several common ground between religions that can be leveraged to promote environmental protection. One such common ground is the recognition of the interconnectedness of all living things and the importance of preserving the natural world for future generations. Many religious traditions emphasize the value of caring for the earth, the importance of biodiversity, and the need to reduce our impact on the environment.

Promoting Environmental Protection:
The promotion of environmental protection can be achieved through a multi-faceted approach that involves collaboration between religious leaders, scientists, policymakers, and communities. One effective strategy is to encourage religious institutions to incorporate environmental teachings and values into their teachings and practices. This can be done through the development of environmental education programs, the promotion of sustainable practices within religious communities, and the integration of environmental concerns into religious rituals and ceremonies.

Islamic Law and Environmental Protection:
Islamic law, as one of the world's major legal systems, has a rich tradition of environmental protection. The principles of Shari'a, which emphasize the balance between human needs and the needs of the environment, provide a framework for promoting sustainable development and environmental stewardship. This can be seen in the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, who emphasized the importance of caring for the earth and the natural resources it provides.

Comparative Environmental Law:
Recognizing the contributions of different legal systems, including Islamic law, can contribute to the development of a more comprehensive and effective approach to environmental protection. Comparative environmental law is a field that examines the similarities and differences between different legal systems and seeks to find common ground and best practices for promoting environmental protection.

Conclusion:
The common ground between religions and the environment provides a foundation for promoting environmental protection and sustainable development. By fostering collaboration and dialogue between religious leaders, scientists, policymakers, and communities, we can create a more harmonious and sustainable world. The integration of environmental teachings and values into religious institutions, the development of comparative environmental law, and the promotion of sustainable practices can all contribute to the protection of our climate system and the preservation of our natural resources for future generations.

Weight: 290g
Dimension: 152 x 227 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108738842