The Ever Increasing Trend of Environmental Pollution in Pakistan and its Eradication in the Light of Islamic Teachings

Abstract

The human being has been honored with vice regency on the planet earth by the creator. Such a prestigious position demands for exhibition of moral high grounds by performing a set of important roles, responsibilities and keeping up with the trust. This includes protecting and preserving the natural environment and resources for the greater benefit of the whole human race. The Arabic equivalent for the word Environment is ماحول which encompasses everything that exists in the surrounding hence environment does not merely consisted the physical resources around us but also includes moral, cultural, political and socio-economic circumstances that matter and are no less important with regard to overall environmental situation, because the environment in physical terms is seriously affected if the latter get corrupted. This article moves on discussing the Islamic stance on the environment, its protection and preservation. It classifies the causes of environmental degradation into two major areas i.e natural causes and man-made causes. The article stresses upon the moral values that can have lasting effects on our environment. It also suggests reformation of moral values by creating awareness about the consequences/ impacts of moral, social evils on the society and the environment at large. There is a great demand for promotion of universally accepted moral values and practices. The article discusses in detail the physical environment and its four basic elements by highlighting the teachings of the Islam. The paper concludes with the list of suggestions about the environmental protection and motivates its readers to fulfil their individual and social responsibilities.