Development of ecological indicators for Islamic eco-campus environment

Harun, Nor Zalina and Sapian, Abdul Razak and Abdul Majid, Noor Hanita and Mohamed Osman, Mariana and Mansor, Mazlina and Zakariya, Khalilah (2017) Development of ecological indicators for Islamic eco-campus environment. Research Report. UNSPECIFIED, International Islamic University Malaysia. (Unpublished)

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Abstract

This research is conducted in accordance with the vision of the International Islamic University Malaysia to achieve its vision as an ‘Eco Campus Community’. The research also acts as a continuing effort arising from the Government Program Transormation in the third National Key Result Area addressing the improvement of students' outcomes in ensuring that students get quality and holistic learning. In light of this, the research contends that, effective learning can not only be obtained through the lessons taught in class, but the environment and the policies implemented by the institution where students gain knowledge also plays an important role in building character of students. But in the excitement of achieving sustainable development, there are some things that we often overlook, namely how to measure the sustainability of an area and does the measurement is in line with what has been outlined in the Quran? In searching for the answer, the research focuses on developing an ecological indicator for IIUM campus. By referring to the main source in Al Quran and cross references from the numerous references of sustainability and environment, the research aims to provide a set of ecological indicators that permits cross-areas comparisons of environmental progress in a systematic fashion. IIUM campus in Gombak will be used as a case study. The study is confined to examining the river which acts as a main natural component in IIUM campus. For this purpose, three objectives were formulated, (i) to identify the significance of ecological indicators in according to Quran, (ii) to examine the river ecosystem in IIUM campus and the factors that contribute to its depletion, and (iii) to propose a selection process to identify suitable physical indicators to assess IIUM river condition in achieving ecologically sustainable campus based on Quranic view. Data were gathered using a qualitative approach involving three methods of data collection, namely: (i) document analysis, (ii) semi-structured interview and (iii) site inventory. The finding of ecological aspects of the exploratory reviews from the Quran reveals a clear set of ecosystem services in parallel with the modern concepts. In line with the findings, the research further develops a theoretical framework which includes the functions and benefits of the ecological components. At the same time the frameworks have also highlighted the impacts to the environment if the indicators are not followed thoroughly. Furthermore, it is reported that the sedimentation in the river is caused by anthropogenic activities, namely the construction activity, sand mining activity and clogged culvert. Consequently, the physical environment of the river was found to be mostly affected by the anthropogenic activities. The process of selecting the indicators are carried out based on six criteria of good indicators discussed in this study. The study concluded that the application of river channel morphology indicators is a critical process in physical planning of a sustainable campus as it contributes in preventing the loss of natural ecosystems and it offers a credible basis for creating a conducive place for campus residents. This exploratory research not only represents a first step towards a more analytically driven approach to environmental decision making, but also as a step to formulate policies that can generate income, build economic cooperation besides fostering understanding and love for the environment among the campus community. The indicators that will be developed are expected to become references to other Islamic education institutions and Muslim Ummah.

Item Type:	Monograph (Research Report)
Additional Information:	3640/55961
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Ecological indicators; Islamic eco-campus environment
Subjects:	G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GE Environmental Sciences
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Architecture and Environmental Design
Depositing User:	Dr. Nor Zalina Harun
Date Deposited:	20 Aug 2019 16:45
Last Modified:	20 Aug 2019 16:45
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/55961

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