It would be fair to say that nearly all religions, cultures and traditions around the world have been deeply rooted in nature, drawing their inspiration and knowledge from it. The connection between human society and the natural world has been a sacred relationship for centuries.

But with our present urban lives expanding endlessly, we have become consumerists – taking more than we can give back. And now is the time to reconnect with nature, adopting sustainable daily behaviors, honoring our cultural and religious values.

This concept of linking sustainability with faith and ethics will be a focus of a session at the upcoming Earthna Summit, that will be held in Msheireb on 8-9 March, where religious leaders, climate change experts and policymakers will come together to propose solutions.

“Climate change has been mainly addressed through solutions based on science, technology and innovation. However, there is a very important discourse which is based on ethics and beliefs which will lead communities to live a more responsible life that aligns with their values and religious teachings,” says Ruba Hinnawi, Technical Lead at Qatar Foundation’s (QF’s) Earthna.

According to United Nations statistics, there are approximately 80 to 85 percent of people worldwide who practice a religion, faith, or belief. We, as believers, share many ecological values such as respect, responsibility, justice, and empathy that we follow in our daily lives, and these values are based on respect, responsibility, and a relationship with nature.

“In Islam, the role of humans is distinctly mentioned as the Khalifah, or steward, thereby appointing Muslims with the responsibility to care for all communities and natural resources that we share earth with. Looking at God’s creation, through the lens of trusteeship – Amanah, encourages responsible behavior.” Hinnawi says.

At the Summit, faith-based organization and leaders will convey the importance of sustainable personal behavior as a religious duty for prosperous communities.

“The Muslim world has the potential to lead positive change by first abiding to Islamic beliefs and values in all aspects of life, and second by reviving faith-based development modules such as Himah for environment protection and Waqf for circular economy. Muslims were successful to introduce financial Islamic …