Image provided by Adeline Rawlings

“The Women’s Leadership Program has been a catalyst for my growth as a student at GW,” shared Samaa Afoke, a freshman studying Public Health at GW currently enrolled in the WLP– a year-long program where first-year students live together on GW’s Mount Vernon Campus and benefit from close contact with faculty and women in leadership roles. The program includes a weekly interactive symposium offering the young students the opportunity to explore the development of advancing women in leadership roles across various sectors. 

The Leadership for a Sustainable Future Panel included engaging discussions on the professional journey in sustainability of the four women leaders joining the panel, from their freshman college year to their current career point. 

When asked about the critical skills needed to become leaders for a sustainable future, despite belonging to diverse backgrounds ranging from environmental economics and law to faith-based climate action, the reflections shared by the panellists underscored the same message: building coalitions across sectors and groups, offering particular care to communities most vulnerable to the climate crisis by listening and amplifying their voices, building relationships and allies for a just and sustainable future, and becoming expert communicators—be it writing effective emails or attentively engaging in 5 am Zoom calls. 

Image provided by Adeline Rawlings 

“The panels have exposed me to so many incredible female leaders like Nazish and honed my leadership and professional skills. Hearing from panellists across diverse fields like the federal government and university leadership has inspired me to explore a wider range of career opportunities,” emphasized Afoke. 

Adeline Rawlings, another freshman student in the International Politics cohort of the program, underscored the weekly symposia’s positive impact on discussing intersectional women’s leadership topics, while also offering an excellent opportunity to network with speakers joining them. “I have gained insightful knowledge tonight about the impact of global politics and policy as well as current strides towards environmental justice,” shared Rawlings.

Women have a vital role in leading sustainability efforts. Whether starting a non-profit for climate justice or offering pro bono legal workshops to grassroots community leaders on the frontlines of climate crises, women across the U.S. and globally are taking charge of initiatives and movements to weave an equitable, inclusive, and just future for all. 

“As the primary caretakers of humanity, [women] have an immense influence on a generation’s view of climate and climate issues. Women bring their knowledge and expertise in leadership to climate justice as they influence policy, mobilize grassroots initiatives, and drive transformative change that ensures environmental policies are inclusive and just,” shared Afoke. 

The post Women Leaders in D.C. Are Taking Charge for a Sustainable Future appeared first on Muslim Climate Watch.

Our team has put together a guide in which we share tips on how your Ramadan can truly embody the lessons of less is more by embracing an ethical zero-waste Iftar spread every evening—whether you’re eating alone or with your community.

Steps for Hosting an Ethical Zero-Waste Iftar at Your Masjid

1. Plan Ahead:

• Determine the number of attendees to prepare appropriate portions and minimize food waste.
• Design a menu focusing on local, seasonal, and plant-based ingredients, which have a lower environmental footprint.

2. Sustainable Invitations:

• Utilize electronic invitations to reduce paper usage.
• Inform guests about the zero-waste theme and encourage them to participate by bringing reusable items if possible.

3. Eco-Friendly Tableware:

• Opt for reusable washable plates, utensils, and cups. If reusable options aren’t feasible, choose compostable products certified by reputable organizations.
• Use fabric napkins instead of disposable ones to reduce waste.

4. Mindful Food Preparation:

• Prepare and serve adequate food portions to satisfy guests without leading to excess.
• Have a strategy for distributing leftovers, such as providing guests with containers to take food home or donating to local shelters.

5. Waste Management Stations:

• Set up clearly labelled bins for compost, recycling, and landfill waste, ensuring they are co-located to make sorting convenient.
• Use visual aids above each bin to guide guests on proper disposal practices.

6. Educate and Engage:

• At the event’s start, explain the zero-waste goals and how guests can contribute.
• Encourage guests to share their sustainable practices and ideas.

7. Decorations:

• Decorate with reusable items or natural elements like potted plants, which can be kept or gifted afterward.
• Steer clear of disposable decorations that contribute to waste.

8. Beverage or Water Choices:

• Serve drinks or water in large dispensers to minimize individual packaging.
• Provide guests with reusable cups or encourage them to bring their own.

9. Post-Event Reflection:

• Review the amount and types of waste generated to identify areas for improvement.
• Ask guests for input on the zero-waste initiatives to enhance future iftar events.

By thoughtfully implementing these steps, your Iftar can embody the spirit of Ramadan while promoting environmental responsibility.

Read more: Eco-Conscious Ramadan Infographic: 28 Tips for Sustainable Living

The post How to Host an Ethical Zero-Waste Iftar at Your Masjid appeared first on Muslim Climate Watch.

As guests mingled and enjoyed the night’s dinner of falafel and hummus, the conversation naturally turned to the pressing issue of climate change. The gathering brought together passionate Muslim climate champions from across the DMV area, each with their own unique perspectives and experiences. Throughout the evening, attendees engaged in meaningful discussions on a range of topics, from sustainable living practices to the role of faith in environmental stewardship. These conversations were intellectually stimulating and deeply personal, as many participants shared stories of how their faith has inspired them to take action on climate change.

One of the most powerful aspects of the meetup, sponsored by Interfaith Power and Light (DC.MD.NoVA), was the sense of community that permeated the event. Despite coming from different backgrounds and professions, the attendees were united by a shared commitment to addressing the climate crisis through the lens of their faith. This common purpose created an atmosphere of collaboration and mutual support, as participants eagerly exchanged ideas and strategies for making a difference in their communities.

One of the key themes that emerged from these discussions was the importance of embodying Islamic values in the fight against climate change. Many attendees spoke passionately about how principles such as stewardship (Khilafah) and moderation guide their environmental activism. By grounding their efforts in these values, they are not only working towards a greener future but also fulfilling a spiritual obligation to care for the Earth.

Read More: A Climate Professional’s Insight on Islam & Climate

The event also provided an opportunity for attendees to explore practical ways to respond to the climate crisis. From reducing waste and conserving energy to advocating for policy change, the discussions were filled with actionable insights that participants could take back to their own communities. The exchange of ideas was lively and productive, with many attendees leaving the event feeling inspired and motivated to take their activism to the next level.

As the evening drew to a close, there was a palpable sense of optimism and determination among the group. The Muslim Climate Meetup has not only succeeded in fostering a sense of community but also in galvanizing a collective commitment to climate action. The event was a reminder that, even in the face of daunting challenges, there is strength in unity and hope in action.

For those who were unable to attend, there is still an opportunity to get involved and network. Muslim Climate Watch is actively building its Muslim Climate Collective in the DMV area, and all are welcome to join this growing movement of environmentally-conscious Muslims. Whether you’re an experienced activist or just beginning your journey, the collective offers a supportive community and a platform for making a positive impact on the planet. If you’re passionate about the environment and want to be part of this dynamic community, consider joining the Muslim Climate Watch, and keep an eye out for our future networking events.

The post Faith-Driven Activism Takes Center Stage at Our First Muslim Climate Meetup appeared first on Muslim Climate Watch.

In the spirit of honouring the bounties of Allah throughout the natural world, our team has compiled a list of plant names mentioned in the Quran, with one of their verse references, as some plant names are mentioned more than once in the Quran. We welcome parents, educators, and anyone curious to learn, reflect upon and share these names with their community!

Read More: How to Grow Your Own Garden?

Plants in the Quran

The post Plants Mentioned in the Quran appeared first on Muslim Climate Watch.

With over 90% of major armed conflicts occurring within biodiversity hotspots between 1950 and 2000, it is no surprise that Socotra, with its unique ecosystem and endemic species like the Dragon Blood tree, finds itself engulfed in conflict fueling further destruction. The archipelago, consisting of Socotra and its neighbouring islands, harbours species found nowhere else on Earth, making it a globally significant hotspot for biodiversity.

While Socotra’s isolation has spared it from the direct ravages of Yemen’s civil war, the encroachment of foreign powers threatens to unravel its delicate balance. The strategic interests of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have brought devastation to this ecological marvel. Over the past six years, the UAE has pursued its ambitions in Yemen, consolidating control over Socotra as part of what experts have termed its “self-styled maritime empire.” This military occupation not only exacerbates the humanitarian crisis but also imperils Socotra’s fragile ecosystem.

Despite international recognition of Socotra’s ecological importance, ongoing conflict has hindered conservation efforts. The Dragon Blood tree, among the oldest surviving endangered forest communities globally, is famous for its bright red resin “Dragon’s Blood” and umbrella-shaped canopy. Endemic to the Socotra Archipelago in Yemen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these trees face near-extinction elsewhere. Over the last two decades, their population has substantially declined, endangering their existence.

UAE’s Military Activities on the Island

Funding for environmental protection has dried up, leaving native initiatives to save the Dragon Blood tree languishing. The Socotra Environmental Protection Authority, once a beacon of hope for conservation, now struggles to operate amidst the chaos of war. The conversion of the Authority’s building into a military headquarters by Saudi Arabia symbolizes the prioritization of conflict over conservation. Socotra’s residents witness their natural heritage being sidelined as the island becomes a pawn in geopolitical power struggles. 

The Independent reportedly found UAE building a military base, communications networks and tourist resorts in efforts to turn Socotra into ‘a permanent military outpost-cum-holiday resort’. In preparation for welcoming more Emirati visitors, many parts of the island have already been bulldozed to build holiday resorts and other tourist infrastructure. The island is a biodiversity hotspot, home to 700 endemic species, and 70 percent of its land is protected. These infrastructure projects went ahead without conducting environmental impact assessments, such as undertaking construction to expand the Hulaf Port, the only seaport to the Socotra island, of which the UAE reportedly has control now.

UAE-Israel Military Alliance in Socotra

The UAE’s alliance with Israel further endangers Socotra’s future, introducing new dynamics to an already volatile region. After the signing of the highly controversial Abraham Accords in 2020 solemnizing the normalization of ties between the UAE and Israel, Socotran locals witnessed an influx of Israeli ‘tourists’ on the islands, which later reports found to be Israeli military experts instead.    

In tandem, satellite imagery appeared in 2022 of a new mysterious military base on the island of Perim, another Yemeni island, displacing local fishermen and inhabitants. Similarly, in March 2024, a satellite image of yet another airstrip appeared on Yemen’s Abd-Al Kuri island, with “I Love UAE” written next to it with piles of dirt. Recent Google Earth satellite imagery shows the same airstrip labelled “US Air Base”. In light of these events, some have accused the UAE of establishing a military intelligence hub and missile defence system on the eco-fragile islands, which is also a crucial oil trading route, in partnership with Israel and the US. 

With waning international funding for conservation and UAE’s increasing military presence and touristic infrastructure development, the spectre of extinction looms larger for the Dragon Blood tree, revered as a symbol of Socotra’s resilience. The loss of this endemic tree would be not only an ecological tragedy but also a cultural one, erasing centuries of heritage tied to Socotra’s unique environment, reflecting yet another case of loss of sacred creation at the hands of a few humans in their greed for power, resources and dominance. 

Efforts to protect Socotra transcend borders and ideologies. It requires international cooperation to safeguard this environmental jewel for future generations. Diplomatic pressure must halt the archipelago’s militarization and ensure ongoing conservation efforts. Without collective action for the preservation of its rich biodiversity, including at a bare minimum advocating against the militarism advanced by UAE and allies, Socotra risks succumbing to human conflict and greed. Its fate symbolizes the broader struggle between conservation and exploitation, peace and conflict. 

The post The UAE-Israeli Military Alliance Threatens Yemen’s Environmental Jewel in Socotra appeared first on Muslim Climate Watch.

Here are the 10 must-reads we’ve picked:

1. Green Deen: What Islam Teaches About Protecting the Planet  

Green Deen: What Islam Teaches About Protecting the Planet by Ibrahim Abdul-Matin is a groundbreaking exploration of the intrinsic connection between Islamic teachings and environmental stewardship. Abdul-Matin draws on scripture, research, and interviews with Muslim Americans to illuminate the profound ecological ethos embedded within Islam. At the heart of the book lies the concept that the Earth itself is a sanctuary, echoing the Prophet Muhammad’s declaration that “the Earth is a mosque.” Abdul-Matin translates this spiritual reverence into practical action, advocating for a “Green Deen” encompassing waste reduction, energy conservation, water preservation, and sustainable food practices.

Muslim Climate Watch considers this book among the 10 must-reads on climate, environment, and Islam, recognizing its significant contribution to the discourse on environmental activism within the Muslim community. Explore the book further here.  

2. Signs on the Earth: Islam, Modernity, and the Climate Crisis

Signs on the Earth: Islam, Modernity, and the Climate Crisis is a seminal work by Fazlun M Khalid, exploring the intersection of environmentalism and Islam, offering both practical insights and theoretical reflections. Focusing on historical context and future challenges, including the need to integrate ecological principles into Islamic legal traditions, Khalid urges a re-evaluation of modernity, consumerism, and industrialization. The book aims to inspire environmental change within the global Muslim community by reconnecting humanity with creation within the divine order. 

This book is considered a must-read for its potential to transform attitudes and catalyze action among one billion Muslims worldwide. Get a copy here. 

3. Plants of the Qur’ān, History and Culture 

Plants of the Qur’ān, History and Culture offers a captivating exploration of the botanical world mentioned in the Qur’ān. With lush illustrations by Sue Wickison and insights from botanist Shahina Ghazanfar, it unveils the historical and cultural significance of thirty Quranic plants, from pomegranates to ginger. The book delves into their roles as food, medicine, and symbols, shedding light on their context within Islamic scripture. 

The unique blend of art, science, and cultural exploration enriches our understanding of nature’s importance within religious contexts. Explore the book further here. 

4. Dismantling Green Colonialism: Energy and Climate Justice in the Arab Region 

Dismantling Green Colonialism: Energy and Climate Justice in the Arab Region confronts Eurocentrism and advocates for a class-conscious approach to climate justice crucial for survival. Co-authors Hamza Hamouchene and Katie Sandwell critique the COP process for enabling greenwashing by ruling classes, undermining real progress. The Arab region, a focus of world politics with significant fossil fuel reserves, faces severe climate impacts exacerbated by (neo)colonial agendas. Writers in this book spotlight the importance of fighting for a just energy transition, exposing policies protecting political elites and multinational corporations. 

This work includes an incisive analysis of climate injustices and a call to challenge entrenched power structures hindering meaningful action in the Arab region. Read more here. 

5. Deserts Are Not Empty 

Deserts Are Not Empty by Samia Henni challenges colonial narratives portraying arid lands as “empty” spaces ripe for exploitation. This book remaps representations, histories, and stories of deserts, highlighting their undeniable human and nonhuman presence. Through poems, conversations, and essays by scholars and professionals, it questions the roots and ramifications of the “regime of emptiness” ingrained in colonial imaginaries.

Its decolonial framework urges readers to unsettle and unlearn prevailing perceptions of deserts, fostering new ways of seeing, thinking, and imagining these vital landscapes beyond extractive politics.

6. The Land in Our Bones  

The Land in Our Bones by Layla K. Feghali is a profound exploration of Lebanon and Cana’an’s land-based medicines, inviting readers to reconnect with their roots and deepen relationships with their lands. Feghali, a Lebanese ethnobotanist and cultural worker, intertwines cultural survival with earth-based knowledge, offering a layered history of healing plants and their significance in Cana’an and the Crossroads. Through the praxis of “Plantcestral Re-Membrance”, Feghali examines how ancestral healing practices connect land and kin, providing a lifeline for regenerative healing amidst colonization and displacement. 

The book is a powerful call towards belonging, healing and freedom through tending the land within one’s own bones. By reclaiming ancestral wisdom and fostering ecological stewardship, Feghali offers a pathway towards reconnection with the land and liberation from colonial legacies.

7. The Environment and Ecology in Islamic Art and Culture 

The Environment and Ecology in Islamic Art and Culture explores the intersection of Islamic culture and climate change, highlighting the profound ecological awareness embedded in Islamic art and architecture. Authored by scholars and critics, the book highlights optimistic, sustainable, and innovative responses to environmental destruction, showcasing the ingenuity of artists and builders. By showcasing the creative approaches adopted within Islamic art and architecture, the book inspires a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship rooted in Islamic traditions and principles.

Muslim Climate Watch recognizes this book for its comprehensive exploration of how Islamic culture intersects with climate change, offering valuable insights into historical and contemporary perspectives. 

8. Muslim Environmentalisms: Religious and Social Foundations 

Anna M. Gade’s Muslim Environmentalisms: Religious and Social Foundations delves into Islamic perspectives on environmentalism, bridging textual and ethnographic studies to explore the religious and cultural roots of Muslim commitments to the earth. Through a multidisciplinary lens, Gade examines how diverse Muslim communities address ecological concerns, drawing on scripture, jurisprudence, science, art, and social engagement. Case studies from Indonesia and Southeast Asia illustrate disaster management, educational initiatives, conservation projects, and religious rituals, revealing Islam’s ethical approach to environmental stewardship. 

It is a groundbreaking examination of how Islamic traditions shape environmental discourse, offering fresh insights that transcend conventional frameworks. Gade’s work challenges biases in religious studies and environmental humanities, advocating for a more inclusive and global understanding of environmental issues through the incorporation of Muslim perspectives.

9. Climate Optimism: Celebrating Systemic Change Around the World

Climate Optimism: Celebrating Systemic Change Around the World by Zahra Biabani celebrates systemic change worldwide in environmental sustainability. Biabani, a climate activist, emphasizes hope and action, urging readers to stay optimistic amidst the climate crisis. Through a comprehensive review of promising climate solutions and interviews with activists, the book offers practical advice to change attitudes and implement nature-based solutions. 

Its uplifting perspective highlights positive environmental trends and inspires readers to contribute to planetary protection. Biabani’s focus on climate hope and optimism aligns with the mission to foster positive change within the global Muslim community.

10. The Last Generation (Generasi Terakhir) 

The Last Generation (Generasi Terakhir) by Dr. Fachruddin M. Mangunjaya offers an Islamic perspective on environmentalism and climate change, emphasizing the roles of Muslims in addressing global climate challenges. Originally published in Bahasa Indonesia, the book is now accessible to a wider audience through translations into Arabic and English made by Ummah for Earth Alliance. The Last Generation blends practical environmental knowledge with Islamic scientific theory, addressing themes of harmony and human responsibility. Grounded in Qur’anic teachings, it advocates for stewardship of the Earth and offers guidelines for combating the climate crisis. 

Muslim Climate Watch recognizes the significance of this book in integrating Islamic values with environmental discourse, making it one of the 10 best reads on climate, environment, and Islam.

The post 10 Must-Reads on Climate, Environment & Islam appeared first on Muslim Climate Watch.

Fostering a culture of growing our own food also promotes a deeper connection to the land, Allah’s creation, and a greater appreciation for the resources he gave us. By actively participating in the process of planting, nurturing, and harvesting crops, individuals develop a profound understanding of the labour and resources required to produce food.

Ultimately, the journey towards food sovereignty begins with a single seed planted in the soil, symbolizing our commitment to cultivating a future where food is not just a commodity but a fundamental human right. You can use our infographic to take your first steps towards food sovereignty.

The post How to Grow Your Own Garden? appeared first on Muslim Climate Watch.

Fawzia Jaffan
Jaffan is an Animal Rights Activist & Researcher with Middle East Vegan Society and Leader and Manager of the Vegan Islam Initiative 

When it comes to Islam and according to the Qur’an, preserving the environment is a religious duty in addition to a social obligation, and is not considered an optional matter. The Prophet peace be upon him said: “The world is beautiful and verdant, and verily God, the exalted, has made you His stewards in it, and He sees how you acquit yourselves” (Saheeh Muslim). The Quran says, “It is He who has appointed you vicegerent on the earth…” (Quran 6:165). A Muslim’s role in today’s world should be more cautious and aware of their actions and whether they’re contributing to environmental damage or not. Some good role examples would be recycling, using less chemical-derived products, and most importantly cutting away from animal products to further not support the industries that are responsible for many environmental burdens that threaten sustainability including greenhouse gas emissions, land use and degradation, excessive water use, nutrient pollution, use of fertilizers and pesticides, consumer-level food waste through the entire product food chain and last but not least, deforestation. As we all know, Islam forbids wasting of resources, especially wasting of food and water, as Allah said: ‘Eat and drink, but waste not be excess’ (Quran/Al-araf:31). As well as not cutting down trees excessively and unnecessarily. The Prophet (peace be upon him) ordered the Muslims not to cut trees even during war! Every individual Muslim should make Jihad and try their best avoiding damage to our home planet Earth. Allah also said:
“And do good as Allah has been good to you. Moreover, do not seek to cause corruption in the earth. Allah does not love the corrupters” (Al-Qasas: 77)

Yousef Aly Wahb
Wahb is an Islamic Law Instructor at the University of Windsor Faculty of Law and Research Director at Yaqeen Institute 

The discourse on Islam and the environment often focuses on integrating universal religious concepts into prevailing environmental trends and sustainability movements. While this promotes global ethics applicable in postcolonial contexts, it tends to overlook the underlying driving forces of these movements. The recognition of environmental decline and climate change impacts reflects a concerning trend of merely ‘greening the status quo.’ This discourse tends to perpetuate a state of regression, relying on panic-driven crisis management approaches rather than advocating for radical change. There is a minimal exploration of how Islam advocates for systemic and behavioral transformations to address root causes.
To effectively tackle contemporary climate justice issues, we must draw upon Islamic tradition’s precedents and resources while embodying overarching Islamic values such as createdness, mercy, justice, vicegerency, and temporality of life. Justice, for example, seeks to address power imbalances perpetuating eco and social injustices. Mass production exacerbates sustainability issues and labor exploitation, highlighting the need for systemic change. Additionally, the intersectionality of racial and environmental injustices underscores the importance of addressing deeper dynamics in sustainability challenges.

Hashem Abdi 
Abdi is a Sustainability Advocate and ESG Consultant

Climate justice to me is the ability for us to tackle inequality caused by climate change and the current socio-economic system while also working to mitigate the impacts of climate change and strive for more equitable systems. Muslims must play a critical role in helping restore the balance to the ecosystems around the world. As stewards of the earth, we have a religious and moral obligation to ensure that the world we leave behind for our future generations is habitable and just for all. Anas ibn Malik reported: The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “If the Resurrection were established upon one of you while he has in his hand a sapling, then let him plant it.” The beauty of this hadith lies in many of its subtle elements. One of the key points is that the person is instructed to plant the sapling even if he never sees the fruits of it. Like so many of us today who are reading this we may never see how the future of the world may become or how a tree may grow that we plant today, but our beloved prophet PBUH has taught us to consider those that come after us instead of just thinking about ourselves. On this Earth Day, we should all reflect on our impact on future generations and think of what can we do to help reduce global inequality that is only being exacerbated by climate change.

Marium Nur Vahed
Vahed is the Co-Founder of Green Ummah

Climate justice is about recognizing the disproportionate impact of climate change on marginalized communities and the critical need for these communities to be part of climate solutions. As Muslims, our role starts with understanding the mandate our faith gives us to take care of this planet. We need to use that as a launching point to encourage the people in our families, communities, and networks to think creatively to address the complexities of climate change. We must each look at the systems we are part of – be it through our career or at the mosque – and think boldly about how these systems need to incorporate a climate justice mentality.

Fawzia Jaffan can be reached at: Email: fawziajaffan@gmail.com | Instagram: @fawziajaffan

Yousef Wahb can be reached at: Email: yousef.wahb@yaqeeninstitute.org | Twitter: @YousefWahb 

Hashem Abdi can be reached at: Linkedin | Instagram: @Hashem2be , @TwoBillionStrong , @SomalisforSustainability

Marium Nur Vahed can be reached at: Instagram: @mariumvahed , @greenummah | Vahed was recently featured in Climate Warriors

The post Muslim Voices On Climate Justice appeared first on Muslim Climate Watch.

Q: How has climate change affected your life or community?

Nouhad: Over the past few years, Lebanon has felt the impact of the climate crisis on its infrastructure, human health, and agricultural production. Extreme weather events have been noticeably more frequent and intense including heatwaves and droughts which directly affect the livelihoods of farmers. Wildfires have become a yearly occurrence causing damage to properties and human lives. 

However, as a Lebanese citizen, I cannot separate my struggles from the challenges faced by other countries of the MENA region. Our struggles, how we are impacted by climate change, and the challenges we face meet on so many levels. Our region has contributed less than 5% of historic global emissions, our country less than 0.07%, yet it is bearing one of the heaviest costs of the climate crisis. Vulnerable communities are suffering from the impact of climate change disproportionately in other parts of the world. People’s health is affected by the high temperatures, food security is threatened by extended droughts and social inequalities are deepened even more. Our communities are mutually facing the loss of human lives, homes, and livelihoods due to the climate crisis.

What challenges does your community face in building climate resilience?

Define climate justice and share your outlook on the climate’s future.

Nouhad: Climate justice begins with the recognition that climate change has adverse and disproportionate impacts on different countries, communities, and groups, meaning the presence of disparities in terms of challenges yet also the ability to adapt. It entails the notion that the countries of the Global South do not have equal means to recover and adapt, so it is the idea of equitable distribution of both burdens and benefits. Climate justice ensures that the global community and those historically responsible for the climate crisis support the communities that are bearing its heaviest cost.

As for the future of the climate, it is only getting worse from here unless we act NOW. We need to make daily life changes on an individual basis, adopt green initiatives on a community level, work towards a socio-economic system that puts people’s well-being and sustainability over profit, advocate for national and regional climate policies and laws and finally make sure that the promises and decisions made in global climate conferences such as COP are fairly and urgently implemented.

What casual or innovative changes would you like the Muslim community to adopt for a just climate transition?

Nouhad: Every small action makes a difference. Most Muslim communities are located in the countries of the Global South, therefore they are heavily affected by the climate crisis and their voices should matter.

Stepping towards a just climate transition can work on so many different levels, including but not limited to:

1. Personal and Individual: This can take the form of committing to an eco-friendly Ramadan, an eco-friendly Hajj, leading green initiatives in the community, conserving water and energy, and adopting sustainable habits in day-to-day life.
2. Community: This can take the form of solarizing a Mosque or for example the active engagement of Imams as faith leaders in environmental action.
3. The Inclusion of Muslim Voices in Global Climate Conversations: As they represent their unique experiences and solutions, they represent the voices of the most affected communities and provide a fresh perspective on climate-related issues. Allowing young Muslim climate champions to be part of the decision-making process paves the way toward a just climate transition. We, as Ummah for Earth, had a set of demands that were submitted to faith leaders during COP28 that are available on our website and can be adapted to different contexts.  

Our work, at Ummah for Earth, is part of enabling this just transition. Our mission, projects, and initiatives represent their voices and aim to empower them to be at the forefront and the center of global climate action, and enable them to start making a change within their communities and beyond.

What do you think is the outlook of Muslim Americans/Canadians towards climate action and environmentalism? If negative, what are some ways we can collectively work towards improvement?

Nouhad: The outlook of Muslim Americans/Canadians towards climate action and environmentalism can vary widely depending on factors such as cultural background, education, socio-economic status, and personal beliefs. We do not believe that there is a negative outlook of any community in any place in this world. Some communities need more awareness to help them serve their people and protect the environment. While some Muslim communities may actively engage in environmental activism and view climate action as a moral imperative rooted in Islamic teachings, others may not prioritize these issues due to other pressing concerns or lack of awareness.

Nouhad Awwad is Campaigner at Ummah for Earth, Global Outreach Coordinator at Greenpeace MENA, and a dedicated Environmental Activist.

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Muslim Climate Narratives

A multi-media storytelling project of Muslim Climate Watch showcasing powerful and inspiring stories from our fellow Muslims across the globe as they take us on a journey through their lives and communities, revealing their resilience and adaptability while facing the pressing challenges of climate change.

Do you have a climate story to tell?

Contact us today to be featured.

The post Climate Advocate Nouhad Awwad Urges Global Solidarity in the MENA Region appeared first on Muslim Climate Watch.

As we enter the sacred month of Ramadan, we extend our invitation to our readers to embrace an eco-conscious lifestyle, enriching the celebration through sustainable living practices. Download our Eco-Conscious Ramadan Infographic featuring 28 invaluable tips on adopting a sustainable lifestyle. These tips are designed to inspire environmentally friendly habits throughout the month. Feel free to print and display this infographic in your mosque or home for daily guidance, and spread the word on social media by tagging us @muslimclimatew. Let’s make this Ramadan a time of spiritual growth and environmental stewardship.

The post Eco-Conscious Ramadan Infographic: 28 Tips for Sustainable Living appeared first on Muslim Climate Watch.