As God's vicegerents, let's do better in saving the environment

• Main Author: Hasan, Md. Mahmudul
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd. 2023
• Subjects: BP160 General works on Islam; BP170.8 Universality of Islam; BP190.5 Islamization of Knowledge
• Online Access: http://irep.iium.edu.my/104736/2/104736_As%20God%27s%20vicegerents.pdf; http://irep.iium.edu.my/104736/; https://www.nst.com.my/opinion/columnists/2023/05/911525/gods-vicegerents-lets-do-better-saving-environment

As God's vicegerents and followers of Islam, Muslims are supposed to be at the forefront of looking after our planet and be role models for others. Unfortunately, the dining behaviour of many Muslims and their irresponsible use of plastic bottles and containers do not suggest that they are the true vicegerents of God on earth. Their insensitivity to the harmful effects of their actions also forms a poor impression about their understanding of their religion, its scripture and the sunnah of the Prophet. It is true that huge industries have evolved to cater to people's demand for plastic bottles and other avoidable plastic products. However, that should not be used as an excuse to continue and proliferate their use at the expense of our planet and the environment. There must be better ways to create jobs and to ensure economic growth without harming the environment.