The benefits of sadaqah (charity) are boundless. In Allah’s (swt) mercy, He has blessed us with countless opportunities to engage in charity. We must reflect upon the role we play in our communities and the intertwining of our various obligations as Muslims and Khalifa (or stewards) of this Earth. Acts of charity are of immense spiritual and social benefit not only to the doer and the receiver but to the community at large. However, charity in Islam is not limited to monetary contributions. When we connect environmental stewardship to sadaqah, we become more conscious of how we treat the Earth that Allah (swt) entrusted to us. 

The monetary value of charity cannot be diminished and should never be neglected; however, as Muslims, our charitable obligation is also to all of Allah’s (swt) creation, as decreed in the Quran. Expanding our view of charitable acts to include environmental stewardship can lead to incredible change, strengthen our connection with Allah (swt), and encourage us to encompass the traits of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). 

وَهُوَ ٱلَّذِى جَعَلَكُمْ خَلَـٰٓئِفَ ٱلْأَرْضِ

“He is the One Who has placed you as stewards on the earth.” 

(Quran, 6:165)

Climate Crisis, Justice, and our Responsibility as Khalifa

Our obligation to implement charitable actions in our lives and provide support for those in need is essential for combating injustice, oppression, and poverty and taking decisive action to tackle the global climate crisis, particularly given its disproportionate effects on the most vulnerable populations. Over time, our individual and collective actions have impacted the Earth in formative ways. It is our duty as Khalifa to reflect on our responsibility not only to the environment, but also to communities around the world. This requires taking actionable steps rooted in adl (justice) to fight the climate crisis. 

In Islam, justice requires both individual and collective efforts to combat global environmental injustices. As a community, this includes promoting sustainable practices within mosques, schools, and social networks, advocating for communities who face disproportionate impacts of the climate crisis, supporting organizations leading climate action, investing in environmental education efforts, engaging in policy advocacy efforts locally and nationally, and creating community mutual aid groups to support residents in need. By participating in community action, Muslims can uphold the principle of adl and directly uplift front-line communities. 

Practical Acts of Environmental Sadaqah

Charity, rooted in adl, requires individual efforts as well as community efforts. As shown through the actions of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), acts of kindness toward an animal, planting a tree, or practicing sustainability can be considered charity. Various hadith highlight the Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) gentleness and care for the environment. 

Anas Bin Malik, in Sahih al-Bukhari, narrated:

 “‏ مَا مِنْ مُسْلِمٍ يَغْرِسُ غَرْسًا، أَوْ يَزْرَعُ زَرْعًا، فَيَأْكُلُ مِنْهُ طَيْرٌ أَوْ إِنْسَانٌ أَوْ بَهِيمَةٌ، إِلاَّ كَانَ لَهُ بِهِ صَدَقَةٌ ‏”

Allah’s Messenger (PBUH) said, “There is none amongst the Muslims who plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person or an animal eats from it, but is regarded as a charitable gift for him.” 

(Sahih al-Bukhari, 2320, Book 41, Hadith 1)

This hadith emphasizes the manifestation of charity in a variety of ways and the idea that it can transcend monetary contributions. When we connect charity to environmental protection, it changes how we treat and protect it for future generations. An action as simple as planting a tree is considered not only an act of charity but can also be a means of combating climate change through reducing air pollution and providing greener spaces. Actions we can implement in our daily lives, in addition to planting trees, can include food and water conservation, adopting a sustainable diet, tackling food waste in our community, keeping the environment clean, implementing a sustainable lifestyle to fight overconsumption, and aligning our climate action with Islamic finance initiatives. It is crucial to stay mindful of the conservation of our resources and expand our Zakat and monetary obligations to include environmental initiatives. 

Implementing Sadaqah in Our Lives

Allah (swt) bestowed upon us an obligation to care for the Earth, protect its creation, and nurture it for future generations, as exemplified in the Quran and through the actions of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). As Khalifa of this Earth, we have an individual and collective responsibility to environmental protection, sustainability, preservation, and justice, and this requires undoing the damage we have inflicted on His creation. 

It is our responsibility to be intentional with what and how much we consume and prioritize charity, to mitigate the negative impacts of climate change, and contribute to a more just environment. The climate crisis impacts all of us, and individual and collective charity—a balance of both sustainable living and monetary contributions—to His creation can be a beautiful act of pleasing Allah (swt), encompassing the Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) care for the Earth, and a solution for tackling the climate crisis rooted in compassion, justice, and optimism. 

The post Why Environmental Stewardship is an Act of Sadaqah appeared first on Muslim Climate Watch.

1. Yasmeen Lari

As Pakistan’s first female architect, Yasmeen Lari’s prolific career, remarkable accolades, and unwavering commitment to humanitarian work earn her a rightful place as one of the foremost environmentalists of our time. Born in Dera Ghazi Khan, Pakistan, in 1941, she spent her initial years in Lahore before moving to London with her family, where she graduated from the Oxford Brooks School of Architecture. She returned to Pakistan at the age of 23 with her husband and established her architecture firm, Lari Associates. For 36 years, she worked on prestigious corporate and state-commissioned projects, from Karachi’s finance and trade center to hotels. 

Image Credit: BBC News

She retired in 2000 to focus on writing and founded the Heritage Foundation. The devastating earthquake of 2005 and the recurring floods that plague the country every few years, resulting from climate change, profoundly impacted her. This experience sparked a deep sense of urgency to aid those in need. 

Lari moved on to work closely with displaced families, helping them rebuild their homes with materials like mud, stone, lime, and wood salvaged from the surrounding debris. Working with volunteers, she trained local people on how to use locally sourced materials to rebuild, following the principles of low cost, zero carbon, and zero waste. She criticizes the ‘international colonial charity model’ and believes that making people co-creators of their homes and lives after a disaster is both healing and economical. 

She has built more than 45,000 zero-carbon shelters in areas affected by natural disasters, developed ‘barefoot social architecture’ for impoverished communities in Sindh province, trained the craftsmen and women of Makli in Sindh, and built over 60,000 uniquely designed chulahs, smokeless earthen ovens for the community. She has numerous accolades to her name, from the Jane Drew Prize to the RIBA Royal Gold Medal, but not at the cost of her conscientiousness. Just this March, she rejected the Israeli Wolf Foundation Prize in Architecture with its $100,000 prize money, citing the genocide in Gaza, stating: “I’ve spent much of my life helping refugees, albeit climate migrants, and Gaza is unfortunately now one of the worst situations in terms of displacement.”

2. Sumaira Abdulali

With India’s rich biodiversity and legacy of environmental stewardship under threat from climate change and capitalism, many Indians are actively fighting to protect it. Hailing from a family of environmentalists and anti-colonial activists, Sumaira Abdulali stands as one of the foremost of these activists. Born in 1961 in Mumbai, Sumaira chose to learn from her life experiences instead of a typical college experience. It was the issue of noise pollution that first ignited her passion. 

Dubbed the ‘Minister of Noise’, Sumaira founded the Awaaz Foundation and raised awareness about the damaging effects of the ever-increasing urban noise pollution. She lobbied for the demarcation of silence zones, control of noise from vehicles, and stricter enforcement of Noise Pollution Rules. 

Image Credit: Sachinvenga via Wikimedia Commons

Her relentless fight against illegal sand mining made her stand out as a fearless justice-driven advocate. Sand, often seen as an abundant resource, is one of the most extracted natural materials after water. Yet, for years, its extraction went unchecked, particularly along the coastal areas of Maharashtra, where powerful sand mafias operated with impunity. 

Sumaira was the first to recognize the environmental and social dangers posed by illegal sand mining and campaigned to end it. It was a brutal physical assault by the sand miners, resulting in her hospitalization, that became her turning point. With a stronger resolve, she founded the Movement against Intimidation, Threat and Revenge against Activists (MITRA) to protect activists against unchecked violence. She continued gathering evidence against the wealthy capitalists and politicians who controlled the sand-mining companies, eventually filing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) with the Bombay High Court, resulting in the first-ever court order against sand mining in the region. 

Her opponents retaliated by attempting to drive her car down a cliff, an assassination attempt she miraculously survived. Her tireless work bore fruition when she successfully brought this issue on the UNEP’s radar through the 2012 Conference of Parties of the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity in Hyderabad, and contributed to the production of Sand Wars, a documentary film on the global sand crisis, which won numerous awards and inspired the UNEP to to publish a Global Environmental Alert in March 2014 titled “Sand: Rarer Than One Thinks.” 

Sumaira herself has been awarded the Mother Teresa Award for Social Justice and the Olive Crown Award. She is also an Ashoka Fellow, alongside serving in different capacities with various organizations.

3. Syeda Rizwana Hasan

As the Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change and the advisor to the interim government of Bangladesh, Rizwana Hasan has had an extraordinary career which has earned her recognition as Bangladesh’s environmental champion. Born in 1968 in Habiganj, modern-day Bangladesh, Rizwana graduated from the University of Dhaka, earning her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in law. Dedicated to environmental and societal justice, she rose to prominence by spearheading a legal battle against the shipbreaking industry in Bangladesh. 

Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons

She filed a case against the import of toxin-laden ships, mostly from developed countries, destined to be broken down for parts in Bangladesh — an industry that exploits its workers through low pay and hazardous conditions and poisons the surroundings. This resulted in government regulation of the industry and marked the first time that a polluting company was fined in Bangladesh. 

Apart from the ship-breaking industry, Rizwana has continued to tackle other sectors that exploit their workers and the environment, filing lawsuits against organizations responsible for filling lakes to construct real estate, misusing polythene, cutting hills, deforestation, shrimp farming, and illegal construction. 

She joined the Bangladesh Environmental Lawyers Association (BELA) in 1993, eventually serving as Chief Executive, leading it to win the Global 500 Roll of Honor in 2003 from the United Nations Environment Program. She has been awarded many honors and recognitions, including the Goldman Environmental Prize 2009 and the Ramon Magsaysay Award 2012.

4. Afia Salam

Image Credit: TEDx

Afia Salam is a Pakistani journalist, notable for being the country’s first female cricket journalist and an outspoken proponent of women’s rights and climate activism. She graduated with a master’s degree in Geography from the University of Karachi in 1982 and went on to have a prolific career spanning four decades of experience in print, electronic, and web journalism. She joined the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Pakistan in 2008, which impressed on her the gravity of the environmental challenges that Pakistan faced. 

She has played an instrumental role in the designation of Marine Protected Areas along Pakistan’s coasts, including Astola Island, which is now the country’s first such area. This initiative has been crucial in safeguarding marine biodiversity in a region that is vulnerable to the devastating effects of climate change. 

Beyond this, Afia’s leadership extends to her work with the Indus Earth Trust, where she serves as President of the Board. The organization focuses on ‘green construction,’ water replenishment, wastewater treatment, and sustainable energy solutions. 

She also serves as the current elected President of the Executive Committee of Baanhn Beli, an NGO dedicated to striving for a gender equitable education and women empowerment. She works to deliver water through wells, reservoirs, and dams, along with educational programmes in the destitute district of Tharparkar. Afia is also a member of the working group formed by the National Security Division and Strategic Policy Planning to draft climate change and security recommendations.

5. Fawzia Tarannum

A dedicated force in the fight for water sustainability and climate action in India, Dr. Fawzia Tarannum exemplifies the power of education and research in driving environmental activism. With over 24 years of experience, her work spans research, education, and direct community engagement. 

Having held diverse roles, including Assistant Professor at TERI School of Advanced Studies and General Manager-Sales at Cleantec Infra Private Limited, Dr. Fawzia’s experience extends across academia and industry. As the National Coordinator for Water at The Climate Reality Project, India, she has worked tirelessly to raise awareness and build solutions around India’s water challenges. 

Her efforts have reached thousands of people through delivering over 5,000 training programs on water governance, climate change, and gender equality. A Fulbright Hubert H. Humphrey Fellow, Dr. Fawzia’s global perspective on water issues has shaped her impactful work at the WforW Foundation, where she co-founded a platform for people to come together to address water concerns. 

Image Credit: TERI University

She is also the founder of her own company, Earthwise Environment and Sustainability Solutions. Honored as one of the 17 SDG Women Changemakers by Sayfty Trust and Twitter India, Dr. Fawzia’s work is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion. 

In a world often overshadowed by the grim realities of climate change, the stories of these women offer much hope. As we draw inspiration from their collective commitment that transcends borders, we must recognize that climate justice is a responsibility shared by individuals and communities alike. Many women in climate-vulnerable nations are courageously leading the way in the fight for climate justice.

The post 5 Trailblazing Muslim Women Fighting For Climate Justice In South Asia appeared first on Muslim Climate Watch.

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.

Entire communities were engulfed, homes reduced to ashes, and over 150,000 residents were told to evacuate. In just one week, the estimated damage was 12,000 structures. IRUSA’s Disaster Management Team delivered essential supplies such as food and water to local shelters and supported firefighters courageously battling the wildfires. These firefighters found brief moments of comfort in the sustenance provided by the team.

“Our work doesn’t end here,” says a representative from IRUSA. “We stand with those affected, whether they’re on the front lines or displaced from their homes.”

The Islamic Shura Council of Southern California also helped to raise funds for immediate relief. They provided aid, shelter, and necessities for people who lost everything in the flames. But Shura’s vision extended beyond the immediate crisis. They promised support for restoring homes, community spaces, and masjids—places central to rebuilding a sense of community once more.

“We pledge to share our resources, time, and efforts to not only rebuild what was destroyed but also bring renewed hope, resilience, and tangible aid to those most affected,” Shura said in a statement. Donations are accepted through LaunchGood with a goal of $50,000 to go towards relief and long-term assistance.

CAIR has provided crucial information, ensuring that Muslims nationwide stay informed about ongoing efforts. They are encouraging communities to contribute to relief initiatives by amplifying donation pages.

The U.S. Council of Muslim Organizations (USCMO)— our nation’s umbrella group of Muslim associations— also praised the swift response. “It was heartening and impressive to see our U.S.-based international relief organizations and local charities and aid groups almost immediately leap into action,” a USCMO representative said in a statement. “They sent teams of aid workers, relief support crews, and loads of aid for the fire victims and firefighters battling the flames.”

Muslim Organizations Are Pushing for Resilience

In the wake of destruction, these organizations reminded fire victims that they were not alone. The collective effort was a living embodiment of Islamic values: charity, community, and compassion.

As homes are rebuilt and lives are pieced back together, the impact of these efforts will continue to ripple through Southern California. The wildfires test the resilience of Orange County, but they also reveal a strong support system ready to work against the flames. 

The post The Islamic Charities Battling the LA Fires appeared first on Muslim Climate Watch.

As we reflect on this moment, let us turn to Allah in gratitude for this pause in devastation and make heartfelt prayers for the people of Gaza, the West Bank, and all oppressed communities in their struggle for liberation, justice and peaceful existence in dignity.

This ceasefire is not an endpoint. It is the beginning of a new, crucial struggle, as Palestinians gradually return to rebuild their lives in Gaza and confront the incomprehensible trauma they’ve endured. In recent hours, Israeli airstrikes overnight have killed more than 80 people in Gaza. Talks are delayed as Israel blames Hamas for setbacks. This serves as a reminder to remain steadfast in supporting the Palestinian liberation cause, now more than ever before and the fight for justice for all, and to continue striving to support those living with lifelong trauma and impacts of the genocide—the loss of limbs, homes, and beloved friends and family. The environmental side effects will continue to harm this community for generations to come.

While we continue to organize in active support and take concrete measures in our unique capacities to liberate Palestinians and all oppressed peoples living under tyranny and occupation, today we urge all to reflect on the unbreakable resilience of Palestinians in the face of insurmountable oppression of more than 70 years. 

May we never lose sight of their perseverance and love for justice.  

As we take in this news of a ceasefire, our team sincerely offers duas for Palestinian people, together for all oppressed creation around the world:

The Dua for Oppressed People

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ ظُلْمِ الْمُلْكِ وَ مِنْ شَرِّ الْقَاهِرِ

O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the injustice of rulers and from the evil of the One who exercises power. 

Dua for Justice

رَبَّنَا لَا تَجْعَلْنَا فِتْنَةًۭ لِّلَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا۟ وَٱغْفِرْ لَنَا رَبَّنَآ ۖ إِنَّكَ أَنتَ ٱلْعَزِيزُ ٱلْحَكِيمُ

Our Lord! Do not subject us to the persecution of the disbelievers. Forgive us, our Lord! You ˹alone˺ are truly the Almighty, All-Wise. (60:5)

The post The Gaza Ceasefire Is Not an Endpoint appeared first on Muslim Climate Watch.

The COP29 managed to put together a deal at the eleventh hour of the talks wrapping up, wherein wealthier nations agreed to provide developing countries worldwide $300 billion annually in climate financing. A laughable offering, well below the estimated $1.3 trillion that experts estimate is needed for developmental and climate goals of countries struggling to fight the devastating impacts of climate change. A bloc representing the 45 nations most vulnerable to climate change have stated that “this is not just a failure; it is a betrayal.” 

Vulnerable communities, with little agency in these talks, remained sidelined at this year’s COP, even as they bear the brunt of climate change they didn’t cause. The choice of venue for COP29, hosted in Azerbaijan, added insult to injury, spotlighting the petrostate’s history of crimes against Armenians and its fossil fuel ties to Israel during an ongoing Palestinian genocide. This reaffirms the global communities’ failure to see climate justice as an intersectional fight against all injustices, failing to address the systemic injustices and human rights violations while elevating regimes complicit in violence and environmental exploitation. 

Read More: The Untold Crisis of Climate Change, Media Bias, and the Forgotten Muslim Refugees

Within the same week of a disappointing COP29 came the news of the U.S. indictment of Gautam Adani, an Indian billionaire accused of a bribery charge to secure a massive $2 billion solar energy contract. Which begs the question, why are corrupt billionaires taking charge of the so-called “clean energy” revolution? Meanwhile, America’s climate future faces a leadership shift that amplifies billionaire saviorism, granting undue influence to people like Elon Musk—despite allegations of human rights abuses, anti-union practices, and authoritarian alliances. This begs yet another question: why do we, ordinary citizens of the world struggling to survive the chaos of ecological devastation unravelling all around us, rallying behind billionaire climate saviorism? Have we not learnt our lessons yet?

The climate justice movement has already been hijacked by opportunists leveraging greenwashed capitalist agendas, delaying the systemic change urgently required. This so-called “green revolution” has become synonymous with battery stored renewable energy as the best path forward to a sustainable future, while undermining the urgency and delaying the work of shifting to an economy that centers degrowth. Only through rejecting capitalism can we reduce our culture of hyperconsumption, which is the only way we can pave a viable path for a future that guarantees harmonial cohabitation with all creation on Earth, a precedent already practiced by Indigenous people around the globe.

The failure of COP29 reflects not only a lack of ambition but also a continued denial of agency to front-line communities, who are often excluded from decision-making despite bearing the greatest burden of climate impacts. Instead, there has been an increase in influence by corrupt industrialists in steering global climate policy with greenwashed capitalist agendas. 

Today, the climate action movement is dominated by a push for renewable technology development, an important component for which is battery storage. However, the catastrophic costs of developing this technology is barely garnering attention in these international climate events. The continual ignorance of the plight of Congolese from the rush of cobalt mining is indicative of a movement that is no longer serving the people or planet. How are we, as consumers, urged to expedite the electrification of our communities with a heavy reliance on battery storage sourced amidst the growing calls raising alarm of a silent genocide underway in the DRC? Can we take a pause to reflect why we have signed up for a green revolution that is being delivered through the exploitation of innocent children mining rare metals with their bare hands in extremely hazardous conditions? 

This is a crucial junction for grassroots mobilizers and front-line defenders to reclaim the fight for climate justice on their terms, rejecting tokenizing pledges and centering Indigenous and vulnerable voices in the fight for an equitable and just future. By building global alliances grounded in solidarity and resistance, the movement can dismantle the structures perpetuating climate and systemic injustices.

The post Climate Justice Belongs to the People, Not to Green Capitalists appeared first on Muslim Climate Watch.

Earlier this year, a group of UN independent experts warned that acts of harassment, intimidation, violence and incitement based on religion or belief have risen to “alarming levels” across the world, including against Muslims. The rising tide of anti-Muslim, anti-Arab and anti-migrant sentiment among the ‘safe havens’ of the Global North, amplified by dehumanizing rhetoric in mainstream media, has created a chilling backdrop for the escalating violence and oppression faced by communities worldwide.  

Recent statistics reveal that 47% of the world’s 117 million forcibly displaced people come from Muslim-majority nations. Conflicts in Sudan, Yemen and Palestine consistently rank among the worst humanitarian crises in the world, with other countries like Afghanistan and Syria, both plagued by conflict and climate risks, projected to contribute significantly to the estimated 1.2 billion climate refugees by 2050. This number will undoubtedly further increase as the Middle East is further destabilized by imminent wars, which, coupled with the growing anti-Muslim, anti-Arab and anti-immigrant sentiment, is especially disconcerting.

Read More: Unveiling the Exploitation in the Global Fast Fashion Industry

How Negative Media Biases Desensitize the Masses 

What is the origin of apathy towards Muslims, Arabs, and migrants overall, in the Global North? Is there a correlation between reporting by Western media and attitudes of desensitization toward these groups of marginalized people? Western media frequently portrays Middle Eastern and Muslim victims, particularly in contexts like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, through a reductionist, dehumanizing, and binary lens— ”good” versus “evil”, and “civilized” versus “barbaric” forces. This narrative justifies inaction or complicity in human rights abuses. An example is Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant referring to Palestinians as “human animals” in relation to the siege on Gaza—a statement widely covered yet insufficiently questioned by Western outlets. 

This deep-rooted bias in Western media’s coverage of Gaza’s war reached “genocidal” levels according to Al Jazeera. This claim is corroborated by multiple journalists working at CNN and BBC, who allege systemic double standards. However, BBC and CNN as entities continue refuting these claims.

These flawed narratives and harmful stereotypes skew public perception and erode empathy, undermining the moral imperative to address the suffering and injustice of the oppressed.

This trend of selective empathy is not unique to the Middle East; the crisis in Sudan is similarly underreported as a Muslim-majority country facing severe displacement within an ongoing war.

An extreme outcome of these misinformed narratives in the West could be seen in the violent UK mob attacks and riots that broke out after a storm of anti-Muslim disinformation on social media fueled Islamophobic and far-right violence in the aftermath of a fatal stabbing attack.
This bias can also be seen by the continuing marginalization of Muslim minorities within countries like India and Myanmar.

These trends suggest that the escalating impacts of climate change will deepen existing vulnerabilities, disproportionately endangering Muslim lives in particular. In a world already marked by apathy—and, at worst, justification of mass suffering—this disproportionate risk only grows more urgent.

Flaws of International Justice Systems

COP29’s decisive venue in Azerbaijan is problematic for several reasons. The nation has been criticized for its heavy dependence on fossil fuels, with more than 90% of its exports being oil and gas. The nation fails to meet climate obligations under the Paris Agreement, as well as its past human rights abuse record of alleged state-committed war crimes during the Armenian Genocide. More so, in 2021, The Azerbaijan capital of Baku established its “Green Energy Zone” including the Nagorno-Karabakh region, where ethnic cleansing reportedly took place in 2023. Hosting COP29 in Baku affirms the growing disconnect of climate action from holistic intersectional calls for justice, paving the path for authoritarian governments to greenwash their violent histories. 

Read More: Unmasking Water Apartheid: India’s Dam Projects and Environmental Devastation in Occupied Kashmir

This sets the stage for COP29, where states and countries will come together once again to discuss how to move forward in the fight against climate change. In light of this, we must question whether such events genuinely catalyze meaningful action or inadvertently perpetuate the harmful systems contributing to the climate crisis. Recent analyses linking the climate crisis with a rise in authoritarianism only heighten these concerns, casting a shadow of doubt over our collective future.

Last month in September 2024, a similar incoherence occurred at the UN General Assembly when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was invited to address the nations despite his administration’s role in military actions displacing thousands in Palestine, Lebanon, Yemen and Syria. This appearance was offered to him just months after the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled that Israel’s actions in Palestine may plausibly amount to genocide. 

The perpetrator behind these offensives’ ability to address the largest UN assembly—despite the clear ICJ ruling—highlights inherent flaws within our international systems. This, in turn, allows powerful actors to evade accountability and demonstrates the stark disconnect between international rhetoric on human rights and the grim reality on the ground.

This troubling reality raises critical questions: Can institutions that permit and glorify perpetrators of atrocities on international platforms genuinely claim to be committed to any kind of justice—let alone climate justice? With the alarming normalization of anti-Muslim and anti-Arab sentiment in the media, coupled with intensified anti-migrant rhetoric, how will the Global North respond to the rising displacement risks from Muslim-majority and Middle Eastern regions affected by climate disasters? With international institutions weakening, who will protect the vulnerable people forcibly displaced by climate change to safer regions in the Global North—a crisis they did not create?

Addressing these intertwining issues exacerbated by the climate crises in a world standing at the cusp of worsening wars requires a multifaceted approach that must include addressing increasing biases against coloured people through ethical media practices, as well as greater accountability for perpetrators of violence. Ultimately, our fight for climate justice will only be effective if it is rooted in a broader commitment to justice in all its forms for all creation, whether Muslim, Arab, migrant or not. 

The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Muslim Climate Watch’s editorial stance.

This article was updated with links to provide evidence for marginalization in India and Myanmar.

The post The Untold Crisis of Climate Change, Media Bias, and the Forgotten Muslim Refugees 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.

Since the turn of the century, “fast fashion” has defined companies in the fashion industry that put profit over people and the planet. These companies favour lower-quality materials to make cheaper products with shorter lifespans. The result is consumers buying more clothes that they wear fewer times. In fact, Americans are purchasing four times more clothing now than they did in 2000. 65% end up in landfills within a year.

The environmental damage of this clothing waste extends from the pollution of land and waterways at production sites to global oceans where 9% of microplastics come from clothing. It’s anticipated that clothes made from polyester will increase in 2025 to three times the amount produced in 2007–the year when polyester became the world’s dominant fibre.  

Read More: Islamophobia, Housing Apartheid, and Climate Vulnerability in India

With so many fashion companies on the market, it can be hard to discern which are engaging in unsustainable and unethical production practices. One rule of thumb is reading the tag to see which companies produce clothing in countries with lax labour laws, particularly Vietnam, India, China and Bangladesh. By outsourcing this production to countries like these, clothing companies reduce their production costs and limit their legal liability to unethical labor practices. 

Source: Blum Center for Developing Economies, UC Berkeley, 2019

Muslims & Other Marginalized Minorities Working In the Indian Garment Industry

India is the world’s second-largest manufacturer and exporter of clothing in the world, with the United States and European Union accounting for nearly half of total clothing exports. Nearly 13 million people are formally employed in factories, with millions more employed informally in home-based settings. These informally employed, home-based workers often manage the “finishing touches” of garments including hand embroidery, bead and sequin work, and buttons. 

Source: Blum Center for Developing Economies, UC Berkeley, 2019

A 2019 study by the Blum Center for Developing Economies at UC Berkeley researched the exploitation of women and girls in the home-based garment sector across India and found that of these home-based workers, 85% work exclusively on products destined for the United States and the European Union. The report also found that:

• 99.3% of the workers were Muslim or of a minority community (Scheduled Caste)
• 99.2% worked for below minimum wage in conditions of forced labour as defined under Indian law
• 95.5% of the workers were female.

The lack of visibility of these workers in the reported supply chains of these products underscores how fashion companies ignore rampant exploitation in their labour force, including children. Another study showed that 36% of the children received no payment for their work in the home-based garment industry in Delhi.

In 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the “Make in India” campaign to bolster India’s status as a global leader in manufacturing–a title that China has held for decades. But in racing to claim larger shares of the global garment industry, both India and China besmirch their reputations through exploitative practices.

Forced Labor of Uyghur Muslims in China

China’s exploitation of Uyghurs and other minorities has been well documented by investigative reporting and deemed by the United Nations Human Rights Council as committing “crimes against humanity.” Not only has China forcibly removed Uyghur Muslims from their homes and into labour camps, but they’re also attempting to erase their culture. 

Source: Human Rights Watch, 2024

From manufacturing and garment-making to cotton picking in the Xinjiang region, Uyghur Muslims toil to produce the majority of the world’s clothes including 20% of the world’s cotton. As a result, “virtually the entire [global] apparels industry is tainted by forced Uyghur and Turkic Muslim labour.” 

Read More: Reclaiming Zuhd: Embracing Minimalism in a Wasteful World

Prominent fashion companies–including both fast fashion and luxury brands–have been publicly named and shamed for their complicity in engaging Uyghur forced labour in their supply chains. The list of companies includes Shein who several rights groups have accused of allegedly using forced labour of Uyghur Muslims in its supply chain. Some companies have taken steps to change their sourcing, but many have not. Several Western governments including those of the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, and Canada, have imposed sanctions. Yet, China continues to deny committing human rights abuses towards Uyghurs. 

Even with China and India’s well-documented unethical labour practices, fashion companies in the region strive to maintain business as usual. They will continue to dominate the industry until they start pursuing sustainable triple-bottom-line business strategies that value profits along with people and the planet. Despite the plethora of evidence pointing to successful business models that are also sustainable and ethical, the rhetoric of there being little incentive for businesses to change or reveal the truth of their production practices will continue. However, consumers worldwide can chart a different course by demanding a change.

Changing Consumer Habits

Fast fashion leaves an indelible mark on the planet, and it is marred by rampant labour exploitation. The demand and rapid production of garments require significant amounts of raw materials, which causes habitat loss, excessive water use, and pollutes local land, air, and water. It’s estimated the industry is responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions.   

Shifting consumer habits away from fast fashion is an important step towards reducing the industry’s impact on the environment and putting an end to labour exploitation. Here are some steps you can take to curb fast fashion and be a part of the solution:

• Buy less, and more thoughtfully, including upcycling or purchasing second-hand
• Choose higher quality, non-polyester products and wear them for longer
• Repair, resell, or repurpose what you own instead of throwing it away in landfills
• When buying new, prioritize local stores or those with high sustainability and ethical standards
• Hold fast-fashion companies accountable for their unsustainable and unethical practices while avoiding purchasing from them unless practices change positively.

The post Unveiling the Exploitation in the Global Fast Fashion Industry appeared first on Muslim Climate Watch.

Housing Apartheid in Delhi, the NCR

Delhi’s landscape is increasingly marred by a housing apartheid, fueled by a surge in Islamophobia. An example of the housing apartheid is evident in the town of Jamia Nagar, where, south of Delhi, the Muslim population survives without basic amenities and public services, deeming it a ‘Muslim ghetto’. Traditionally, ghettos are inhabited by disenfranchised communities undergoing oppression by the state. 

Through various business practices by brokers and agents, the housing divide is maintained and upheld in the NCR. Landlords and brokers will often refuse to accommodate Muslim families when seeking housing in largely Hindu areas. Brokers will often direct these tenants overtly toward areas with a high-Muslim majority by telling them no other houses are available. Brokers also decide where to place tenants based on their names, revealing their religious identity and enabling discriminatory practices. Locals report that Hindu families tend to relocate when Muslim families move into their neighbourhoods, expressing a preference to live in a “safe place where there are no Muslims”. 

As a result of this ongoing housing apartheid and growing fears of religious discrimination and attacks, Muslims are evacuating Hindu-majority posh areas to move to Muslim-majority ghettos, like Jamia Nagar, an area in South Delhi with limited access to basics such as running water and electricity, for fear of persecution. With recent extreme weather experienced in India, access to drinking water is vital for preventing heat strokes, yet 95.1% of people in these ghettos struggle to obtain the necessary water to stay cool during the summer. The absence of adequate housing and basic resources leaves Muslim minorities in India disproportionately affected by climate change.

Islamophobia Exacerbating Climate Vulnerability

Since PM Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came to power in 2014, hate crimes against religious minorities have soared, with new discriminatory laws and policies constantly being implemented. Under this Hindu nationalist (or Hindutva) government, the use of bulldozers to demolish Muslim properties has become disturbingly common, echoing tactics used in the Israeli occupation of Palestine. Hindutva forces believe that Muslims have no rightful place in India, a sentiment propagated by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). These demolitions, including mosques and Muslim-owned shops, are carried out under false pretenses of removing “illegal and unauthorized buildings”, forcing many Muslims into ghettos lacking essential services to protect against rising climate impacts.

Muslim ghettos across India are plagued by inadequate infrastructure. A significant portion of these communities live without access to clean water and reliable electricity. Schools and parks are also scarce, with most areas lacking sewage or waste management systems. Delhi is experiencing rising temperatures and extreme weather events, exacerbated by urban factors like construction, traffic, and a lack of green spaces. Temperatures have been recorded at a high of 52.3°C (126.1°F). For Muslims living in inadequate housing, these extreme conditions pose severe physical health risks. Proper housing plays a crucial role in protecting individuals from the adverse effects of heat and climate change. Yet, many Muslim ghettos lack this fundamental protection – affecting their mental health as well. 

The discrimination and segregation Muslim communities endure limit their access to resources and support, making them more vulnerable to extreme weather events and rising temperatures. Studies estimate that 17.8% of all annual deaths in India are due to air pollution. Mass displacement is another by-product of the climate crisis, whereby annual floods, heatwaves, and air pollution cause unbridled disruption to communities, affecting millions. 

Climate Justice in India

In his recent book, Climate Justice in India, author Prakash Kashwan found that the “urban poor, Dalits, Adivasis, Muslims, and other marginalized people with little political voice”, are worst hit by air pollution and the climate crisis across India. With a lack of coverage in the national media, the effects of the climate crisis unfairly borne by these groups are largely denied and ignored.

The deadly intersection of housing apartheid amidst rising Islamophobia in Delhi, the NCR and across India is pushing Muslim communities into ghettos, where they face disproportionate impacts of climate change. Addressing these intertwined issues requires integrated efforts focusing on improving living conditions, combating discrimination, and enhancing climate resilience. Without acknowledging and acting on these intersectional challenges, particularly rising Islamophobia and its implications on the climate-vulnerable communities, India cannot deliver a more just and equitable society for all.

The post Islamophobia, Housing Apartheid, and Climate Vulnerability in India appeared first on Muslim Climate Watch.