Urgent Action on the Triple Planetary Crisis: A Call for Stewardship in 2025

By Ibrahim Abdul Mugis, President of Awqaf Africa

As stewards of the Earth, it is our collective responsibility to address the triple planetary crisis threatening the planet—climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. This is not merely a scientific or political issue but a moral obligation, rooted in both faith and reason. Allah commands us in the Qur’an:

“It is He who has made you successors upon the Earth…” (Surah Al-An’am, 6:165).

2025 provides an unprecedented opportunity to align our actions with this divine mandate. Global efforts such as the anticipated agreement to end plastic pollution, the seventh United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7), and the launch of the Global Environment Outlook (GEO-7) remind us that decisive action is both urgent and possible.

Lessons from 2024: A Year of Contrasts

The past year was a mix of progress and challenges. Historic deals to fund conservation efforts were overshadowed by alarming reports of rising greenhouse gas emissions. These events serve as a wake-up call that while progress is achievable, complacency is not an option.

At Awqaf Africa, we view these milestones as a rallying point for bold and collaborative action. Our work is inspired by Maqasid al-Shariah and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), both of which emphasize the protection of life, environment, and future generations.

Awqaf Africa’s Contributions

1. Sustainable Industries
Our gelatin production initiative in Ghana demonstrates how waste can be transformed into valuable resources. By collaborating with local abattoirs, we aim to reduce pollution, create jobs, and supply halal gelatin to global markets.

2. Environmental Restoration
Inspired by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who said, “If a Muslim plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person, or an animal eats from it, it is regarded as a charitable gift (Sadaqah)” (Sahih Bukhari, Book 39, Hadith 513), we have committed to reforestation and land restoration projects across Africa.

3. Community Empowerment
Our Country Supervisors Program equips participants with skills in agriculture, AI monetization, and waste management. This aligns with the Prophet’s teaching: “The best of people are those who are most beneficial to others” (Sunan Al-Kubra, Hadith 6193).

4. Circular Economy Advocacy
On International Zero Waste Day, we will host forums highlighting how zakat and waqf can fund sustainable infrastructure for waste reduction.

Key 2025 Milestones

1. This year, we are committed to engaging with major global initiatives:
2. UN World Restoration Flagships: Scaling up tree-planting initiatives to restore ecosystems.
3. World Environment Day: Hosting regional dialogues to foster action-oriented environmental solutions.
4. GEO-7 Launch: Aligning our strategies with global findings to ensure data-driven solutions.

A Call for Unified Action

In his farewell sermon, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) reminded us: “The Earth is green and beautiful, and Allah has appointed you His stewards over it.” (Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2742). This reminder is more relevant than ever.

The triple planetary crisis calls for leadership that transcends borders and ideologies. As stewards of the Earth, Awqaf Africa is committed to working with communities, organizations, and policymakers to chart a sustainable and resilient future.

Let 2025 be a turning point. Together, we can protect the Earth for ourselves and generations to come.

About the Author

Ibrahim Abdul Mugis is the President of Awqaf Africa, an organization dedicated to advancing sustainable development through Islamic principles and the UNSDGs. Awqaf Africa focuses on environmental stewardship, innovative solutions, and empowering communities across the continent.

References

1. United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP): Key environmental milestones for 2025.

2. Global Environment Outlook (GEO-6 and GEO-7): Insights on climate change and sustainability.

3. United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs): A framework for global action.

4. Awqaf Africa Initiatives: Programs and projects addressing environmental challenges in Africa.

5. Partnerships with local communities, and global organizations for sustainable development.

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