Ecological crisis as human self-destruction through destruction of nature

Ali Yusuf, Imtiaz Ahmed Shaukat (2025) Ecological crisis as human self-destruction through destruction of nature. In: Religion, Culture, and Ecological Flourishing in Asian Contexts. Asian Research Center for Religion and Social Communication, St. John’s University, Bangkok, Thailand, pp. 18-37. ISBN 978-974-487-170-1

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Abstract

This document explores the ecological crisis as a result of human self-destruction through the exploitation of nature, emphasizing the urgent need for global action to address climate change and environmental degradation. It highlights the historical and ongoing efforts to combat climate change, including major international conferences like the Earth Summit, Kyoto Protocol, Paris Agreement, and upcoming COP30 in Belém, Brazil. Despite these initiatives, the document critiques the lack of effective action and political will, especially from major global powers, to implement meaningful changes. The text delves into the role of religion in addressing environmental issues, noting that religious traditions have long emphasized stewardship of nature. It discusses perspectives from various faiths, including Islam, Christianity, and Buddhism, on the interconnectedness of humanity and the environment. The Islamic view, rooted in the Qur’anic concept of Tawhid (monotheism), calls for balance, moderation, and responsible guardianship of the Earth. The Anthropocene era, marked by human dominance over nature, is described as a critical turning point requiring structural changes in political, economic, and ethical systems. The document calls for a shift from consumerism to sustainable practices, urging individuals, governments, and institutions to adopt environmentally responsible behaviors. It concludes with a call for global cooperation, ethical stewardship, and proactive measures to reverse the ecological crisis before it is too late.

Item Type:	Book Chapter
Additional Information:	11557/124297
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Islam and Environmental Ethics, Ecology, Anthropocene, United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BL Religion B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BP Islam. Bahaism. Theosophy, etc B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BP Islam. Bahaism. Theosophy, etc > BP1 Islam G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > G Geography (General) G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GF Human ecology. Anthropogeography
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization (ISTAC)
Depositing User:	Assoc. Pro Imtiyaz Yusuf
Date Deposited:	13 Nov 2025 11:20
Last Modified:	13 Nov 2025 11:23
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/124297

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