Upcoming Event: Think Green - Creating Sustainable Communities

 

Event Details: As interest in the environmental movement continues to grow, many Muslims are revisiting their faith in an effort to identify the contributions Islam can bring in promoting greater environmental awareness. Muslims across the world have quickly adopted and adapted the green movement; spearheading new projects in their own communities and collaborating with other faith groups to address a broad range of common issues, ranging from animal rights to water management. Within Canada, Muslims are already involved in a diverse range of projects aimed at encouraging conservation, reducing waste and participating in ecologically-sensitive consumption. While there has been success in practicing the Islamic teachings surrounding the environment, there lacks a central forum for the exchange of ideas and recognition of our community’s accomplishments.

Khaleafa.com in association with Iqra.ca, Muslim Presence and the Muslim Students Association at the University of Toronto will be hosting a roundtable event to discuss ways Muslims can create sustainable communities in their mosques, community centres and educational institutions. This networking event will bring together those involved in the environmental field to exchange ideas and develop infinitives’ that could be undertaken in our local communities.

Registration: To assist in planning, we ask that you register prior to the event at www.khaleafa.com/ThinkGreen. There is no cost associated and the event is open to the public. Please note, spaces are limited.

Date: Sunday March 18th 2012, 1-3pm

Location: Koffler House (569 Spadina Ave), otherwise known as the Multi-Faith Centre, is located on the north-east portion of Spadina Crescent, north of Russell Street and south of Wilcocks Street on the University of Toronto, St. George Campus.

TTC On the Bloor line, the closest subway stop is Spadina station. Walk south on the east side of Spadina Avenue from Spadina subway station.

On the University line, the closest subway stop is Queen’s Park station. Take the College streetcar west from Queen's Park station, exit at Spadina Avenue, and walk north on the east side of Spadina Avenue.

Parking Surface parking is available across from the Multi-Faith Centre and can only be accessed from the north end of Spadina Crescent. Underground parking is available on Huron Street, just north of College Street.The entrance to this lot is on the east side of Huron Street, between Russell and College Street.

If you have any questions or require special accommodations, please contact: info@khaleafa.com.

About:

Khaleafa.com is a Muslim environmental website promoting environmentalism through the teachings of Islam. The goal of this website is to reignite the discourse surrounding the Islamic approach to environmentalism and to draw upon the essence of these teachings, emphasizing the movement from a Canadian perspective.

IQRA.ca is an online magazine based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It provides an ethical perspective with a Muslim focus on current events and contemporary issues and aims to attract ‘people who reflect’.

Muslim Presence is a network promoting common values and active citizenship based on a contextualized reading of Islam, an open identity, and a harmonious co-existence within this society.

Community Gardens: Green Faith in Practice

 

And it is He who sends down rain from the sky, and We produce thereby the growth of all things. We produce from it greenery from which We produce grains arranged in layers. And from the palm trees - of its emerging fruit are clusters hanging low. And [We produce] gardens of grapevines and olives and pomegranates, similar yet varied. Look at [each of] its fruit when it yields and [at] its ripening. Indeed in that are signs for a people who believe. (Quran, 6:99)

We may be in the depth of winter across Canada, but to many gardeners, this is the time of year to plan for the upcoming season. Local community groups are also preparing for the advent of spring and are putting final touches on proposals for gardening projects on open roofs, parking lots and empty fields within their neighborhoods.

Community gardens have begun to flourish in recent years, especially within urban centres. While collective gardening is not a new phenomenon, it has taken root and evolved beyond local parks, schools and recreation centres to include underutilized regions of the city such as vacant lots and hydro corridors.

The emerging movement towards growing and purchasing local, organic produce has generated interest in community gardens, especially in cities where residents lack access to arable land. There have also been several health scares over the last few years over contaminated produce which has fueled the drive for organic products. Aside from the health benefits of eating naturally grown produce, the movement as a whole has created several positive impacts in the communities they serve, including revitalizing neighborhoods and fostering a new generation to make  more conscious food choices.

Places of worship have also been looking at developing community gardens to serve both their congregations and the general public. Generally their facilities are situated on large open lots that are able to be easily converted into small-scale gardens or into larger agricultural plots. The congregations they serve also possess a diverse range of skills that are able to build, create and maintain an ongoing garden.

After the garden is established, it becomes a beacon for the community by providing educational and recreational opportunities for children and seniors, raises awareness about how our food is grown and physically connects the spiritual teachings with the natural word. The produce that is cultivated can be donated as a fresh alternative to local food banks or used in soup kitchens to feed those less fortunate.

While the initial push has mainly been from churches, community gardens are now beginning to become established within mosques as well.

The Winnipeg Central Mosque teamed up with the Daniel McIntyre / St. Matthews Community Association to start an urban community garden in 2011. The project was constructed within the parking lot and now contains eleven raised beds and three decorative planter beds. The goal of the program is to “encourage environmentalism and to create a safe and welcoming space where families and individuals can enjoy community connectivity through organic urban gardening.”

The Islamic Society of Kingston also launched their own community garden initiative called Gardens of Mercy. The mandate of the project was to encourage “a more efficient and sustainable way of providing healthy food to those in need.” There were several goals of the program which include:

• Helping our hungry neighbors in Kingston by providing them with fresh, local produce;
• Learning about gardening, which can help us in starting a garden at home;
• Appreciation of nature, the environment and Allah's blessings upon us;
• Opportunity to welcome other faith and cultural groups to take part in this project and work together for a good cause.
• Gaining the pleasure and mercy of Allah by being merciful to others.

While there are many benefits to community gardening, there is also a lot of preparation that goes into developing and planning before the first shovel hits the ground. This includes forming a dedicated team to take ownership of the garden, developing and designing the site, taking an inventory of the materials needed, securing the necessary funding and ensuring continued support for the garden in future years.

There are many resources available for those looking at creating a community garden at their mosque. Recently, the Noor Cultural Centre held a workshop entitled A Beginners Guide to Urban Farming, presented by Young Urban Farmers. Their organizations website provides a wealth of information on edible gardens, plants ideal for urban environments, soil management and pest control.

The Toronto Region and Conservation Authority also held a workshop this past fall entitled Creating a Community Garden at your Place of Worship. There they presented resources from the David Suzuki Foundation which includes information on planting native species and attracting pollinators to your garden. They also went through a workshop module from Food Share, which guides you through the steps in recruiting and securing funding for the development of a community garden.

Whether your mosque plans to develop a small rooftop garden with a couple of planters or a large area with several dozen plots, there are key elements that should be considered in the planning phases. The Halifax Garden Network effectively summarizes these steps which include:

1. Organize a meeting of interested people 2. Form a planning committee 3. Identify all your resources 4. Find Financial Support 5. Choose a site 6. Design the garden 7. Prepare and develop the site 8. Make the Garden Accessible 9. Create membership guidelines and put them in writing 10. Keep in touch with each other

Community gardening is a rich and rewarding experience that allows you to share the joys of the outdoors while meditating over the signs of Allah’s creation. The initial investment multiplies in the following years and creates a lasting legacy that can be enjoyed by all in the community. For more information, please visit the following resources below:

Young Urban Farmers

Food Share

Halifax Garden Network

Photo Credit from: Torontoist

‘Green’ Talk and Call for Action at RIS in Toronto

by Hind Al-Abadleh

Attending the 2011 Reviving Islamic Spirit (RIS) Convention in Toronto was an intellectual and spiritual treat to environmental activists in the Muslim community.  For the first time since its launch in 2001, highly respected and well-informed Muslim scholars addressed the attendees in their 40-50 min lectures on the green dimension of Islam, the moral and ethical imperative of protecting the planet, advocating for animal and workers rights, and the need to critically examine our lifestyles in light of the dominant unjust economic system.

The theme this year was “Control, Chaos or Community: Three Ways, One World, Our Choice,” which had a record-breaking 20,000+ people in attendance, not counting those who tuned in for live streaming over the internet.  Below a summary is provided from my personal notes from the lectures delivered by Dr. Umar F. Abdalla, Professor Seyyed Hossein Nasr, and Shaykh Hamza Yusuf Hanson.

Under the theme “Noah’s Ark or the Titanic: The Navigational Value of a Moral Compass,” Dr. Umar F. Abdalla focused his talk on the role that we should play in addressing the environmental crisis facing humanity.  “Today’s luxuries are tomorrow’s disasters,” he stressed.  Dr. Abdallah got to the heart of the issue by stating that “we are extremely inefficient and extremely wasteful.”  He reminded the audience that we have what it takes to make a difference in the world.  The important tools we need are intellect, an ethical way of life and knowledge (in Arabic Aql, Deen, and Ilm).

Dr. Abdallah called the attendees to challenge inhumane practices to animals raised for food.  He reminded them that God – the Almighty - created this world as a garden for animals and as faithful stewards of God on Earth, we should not turn it into hell for them. “Even pigs, we –Muslims - don’t eat pigs, but we should not be silent on the filthy environments in which they are raised for food.”

Dr. Abdallah stressed that it is a moral and an ethical obligation stemming from clear commands in the Quran and rich prophetic traditions that describe animal rights.  He also alluded to the centrality of water in Islam and the highlighted the legal instruments in Islamic law that were derived to govern access to this natural resource by humans and animals, and protect it from pollution and contamination.

Dr. Abdallah emphasized that in our time and age, translating principles to action is possible and invited people to learn more about permaculture.  He stressed that it is a proven system that can be implemented in the inner city, in the suburbs and rural areas, which can bring back to life dead lands for farming and inner cities plagued with violence and other social ills.

Later in the same evening, Professor Seyyed Hossein Nasr gave a lecture under the theme “Changing the Present, Dreaming the Future.”  Professor Nasr is the author of the book “Man and Nature” that came out in the same year as Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring” in the sixties.  His lecture at RIS was on “Man, Nature and the Environmental Crisis from an Islamic Point of View.”  He started by stating that Muslims inside and outside of the Muslim world are starting to pay attention to this matter.  He stressed at the beginning of his talk to not be fooled by the rhetoric of some politicians who dismiss environmental degradation and global climate change as being serious and urgent issues that need to be dealt with.  Professor Nasr said such attitudes are based on a “suicidal view of the nature of human existence on this earth.”

He highlighted the universality of the environmental crisis in that no one can evade from it, and gave an example of how people in Indonesia have been impacted by the contamination from the nuclear reactor in Japan this year.  He criticized that of all the subjects that people discuss, addressing the environmental crisis is at the bottom of their concerns.  This shows that humans are not attuned to the most essential, which is “the condition of our life on earth and how we are going to survive as human beings.”

Dr. Nasr stressed that the urgency in addressing the environmental crisis should be more than that of the economic crisis inflicting the world today.  Deep down, the current economic crisis is a consequence of what humans have done to the environment in the name of “economic progress and development.”

He emphasized that the environmental crisis will continue unless there is a “profound paradigm shift in what the modern man considers himself and the world to be.” It means “a death to what we think we are and a birth to what we really are.”  Dr. Nasr acknowledged the difficulty in doing so and said that this is the reason why the rest of the world, Muslim and non-Muslim, is developing by blindly following the model of the Western industrialized world; which has experienced firsthand environmental degradation since the industrial revolution.

Dr. Nasr focused the rest of his lecture to highlight how the Islamic world produced a civilization that was in harmony with the natural world and has “a long tradition of dealing with nature in a rational and scientific way.” Muslim intellectuals have written scientifically, philosophically, mystically, legally and judicially about nature and humans relationship to it.  This is in contrast to Western association of civilization and modernization with unlimited growth, even at the expense of the destruction of nature.  And the latter explains the delay in reaction to addressing the environmental crisis.

He invited people to examine the condition of the remaining traditional towns and cities in the Muslim World (such as Fes in Morocco and Isfahan in Iran), with that of contemporary towns and cities in the Muslim and Western worlds.  Traditional cities were built in complete equilibrium and harmony with the natural world and could survive for centuries because they were built to efficiently use natural air circulation, water, space and light.  This is in contrast to modern buildings that require a lot of energy to cool in the summer and heat in the winter.

Dr. Nasr elaborated on the meaning of Quranic verses that discourage and warn against ‘corruption on the Earth’ (see for example 2:11-12, 2:60, 7:74, 7:86, 7:103, 11:85, 26:183, 28: 77). The ‘corrupt’ human being is the one who does not respect the rights of God’s creation.  In doing so, he does more serious damage than the cruelest killings of human beings or the most abusive forms of economic transactions.

Dr. Nasr emphasized that every creature has a right and that we – as humans - have no right to deny them that.  He highlighted that the Quran contains “a complete cosmology, a philosophy of Nature in which Nature participates, not only in our lives, not only serves us, but also participates in our spiritual life.”  He quoted a beautiful line of poetry by Jalaluddin Rumi in Persian that translates to:

“If only the world of existence has tongues, then it could lift off all the mysteries of God”

Such is the Islamic view of Nature that needs to be revived.  Our role as God’s vicegerents of Earth is mainly to act as protectors of creation.  Hence, it is a religious duty to protect elements of Nature.  The Divine Shariaa contains references to the protection of non-human elements of nature alongside those that describe our duties to God and fellow human beings.  Examples include, but not limited to, clear prohibition to polluting rivers and cutting fruit trees because these activities are sins in Islamic law.

About the future, Dr. Nasr said that God gave us intelligence to plan, and hence we have to:

-rethink man’s relationship with nature from an Islamic point of view that starts with a profound critique of the western worldview of nature

-reformulate, in a language that is understandable by youth, Islamic teachings concerning nature written in Arabic and Persian poetry

-revive Islamic science and technology in areas like agriculture, irrigation and architecture; and integrate elements from western science and technology that are in line with the core of Islamic worldview of nature.

-formulate “an Islamic ethics and metaphysics of nature.”  The word “metaphysics” refers to a view of the nature of reality.  “To be ethical while considering all animals to be machines because someone in high school told me so is very superficial.”

-concern for the environment has to become a central concern for Muslims.  We need religious scholars and leaders to preach to the vast majority of Muslims about their religious duties towards the environment. These are duties towards God, ourselves, children and grandchildren.

The following day, Shaykh Hamza Yusuf Hanson of Zaytuna College in California delivered a thought-provoking lecture on “Sharing Success: Fair Trade Commerce for a Better World.”  He narrated the history of the fair trade movement in North America that was started by a Mennonite woman who visited Central America and voiced her concerns over the exploitation of farmers.

Shaykh Hamza highlighted that the comfortable and relatively cheap lifestyle of the average person in North America is at the expense of the pain and suffering of farmers, children and workers in Asian, African, Central and South American countries that lack labor laws.  This is how slavery in the 21^st century looks like.  He challenged people to think of the person who collected the cocoa and coffee beans before consuming and enjoying these products.  He then expanded the list to include all cheap and mass produced goods that are imported to North America from the aforementioned countries.

As a trained scholar in traditional Islamic teachings, Shaykh Hamza called upon the Muslims to resist this unjust dominant economic system. He started by reflecting on the life of Prophet Mohammed – peace and blessings of God be upon him - before revelation as a shepherd in his youth and then a merchant in his adulthood.  As a shepherd he learned to take care of his flock and to protect them from wolves, which were skills he utilized to spread the message of Islam.

Merchants by far are the most important members in society because they are at the heart of the commerce and economic systems.  He said trustworthy merchants are at the ranks of martyrs on the Day of Judgment.  He said commerce teaches manners in dealing with other people. If a merchant wishes to be successful, they have to be patient, kind, and keep their word with customers.  Prophet Mohammed was known among non-believers and even his enemies as the ‘Truthful and Trustworthy’ one.

Shaykh Hamza drew upon the rich Islamic tradition that provides the legal and spiritual framework for building economic systems that are based on social justice, transparency, mutual agreement in profit making, and financial solidarity in times of crises.

Shaykh Hamza acknowledged that it will take time for the Muslim communities in North America to step up to the challenge and provide alternatives to the larger communities.  In the mean time, he encouraged attendees to look and support alternatives that are socially just, based on fair trade and locally produced. This may be through farmers markets or local businesses that genuinely care for the people who make the products we consume.  He encouraged us to move our money from big banks, use cash instead of credit cards, support local banks, credit unions, invest in corporations that are socially conscious, and boycott those with an agenda to make profit without regard for people, animals or the environment.

Below is a list of websites the speakers referred to during their talks:

Permaculture: http://permacultureprinciples.com/

Resources on http://www.nasrfoundation.org/audio/Environment

Stanford University study on the Global Coffee Trade:

(http://www.probeinternational.org/coffee/global-coffee-trade)

http://fairtrade.ca/

History of Fair trade: http://www.fair-trade-hub.com/history-of-fair-trade.html

http://moveyourmoneyproject.org/

Documentary called Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead (Extended Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gv3vEXy_EwU)

Dr. Hind Al-Abadleh is an associate professor of Chemistry at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, ON.  She could be reached via email: halabadleh@wlu.ca

The Muslim 500 Project Recognizes Environmental Achievements

 

The Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre, an international Islamic non-governmental organization, recently released its report of the most prominent Muslim leaders of 2011. The Muslim 500 is an annual publication that provides insight into some of the most influential Muslims in the Islamic world. The selected individuals range across 14 categories including the sciences, business, technology, media and the arts. Those nominated were reviewed based on their qualitative and lasting effects in their field and many have demonstrated cumulative achievements over their lifetime.

This year several prominent Muslim environmentalists have been featured including:

Sheikh Ali Goma’a, the Grand Mufti of the Arab Republic of Egypt, has been mentioned for his recent work in environmental sustainability. He has advocated for Muslims to safeguard our environment as a religious duty and that pollution and global warming pose a greater threat to humanity than war.  In 2009 he unveiled the Muslim Seven Year Action Plan to make Medina a model “green’ city as part of the Celebration for the Environment organized by the United Nations Development Program.

Dr. Seyyed Hossein Nasr, an Islamic Studies professor at George Washington University, has published over fifty books and over five hundred articles focusing on a variety of topics including, Islamic civilization, the spiritual void in society and the impending environmental crisis that faces humanity. He has researched into the religious commitment towards the natural environment has and has lectured widely on historical perspective of Islamic environmentalism.

Fazlun Khalid,  one of the most prominent Muslim environmentalists in the United Kingdom, is the founder of the Islamic Foundation for Ecology and Environmental Sciences. The organization conducts research and produces training materials, books and journal articles disseminating the Islamic perspective on environmental issues.

Nasheed Mohamed is the president of the Maldives and is known as one of most environmentally conscious leaders on the world stage. Rising sea levels have threatened the island nation with destruction and Mohamed has called on the international community to deal with the impending climate refugee crisis. The country has taken the lead and is on the path to becoming carbon neutral, relying solely on wind and solar power for its energy needs.

The Sultan of Oman, Qaboos bin Sa’id Aal Sa’id has also been given an honorable mention for his work in promoting environmentalism in his country. These include recognition of the Arabian Oryx Project, which saved that species from the brink of extinction, and protecting the Dimaaniyat Islands, the breeding ground of several migratory bird and sea turtle species.

For more information about the Muslim 500 Project, please visit. http://www.themuslim500.com/

Diversity in Governance: A Snapshot of ENGO’s

The environmental sector in Canada has been growing steadily over the last decade and continues to grow with recent investment in green energy and technology. The rise in environmental awareness among the general public has also meant that environmental non-governmental organizations (ENGO’s) have risen in prominence and now represent a wide variety of concerns and issues relevant to many Canadians.

But how well do these organizations represent the constituency they are serving and how diverse are they? Those involved within the environmental community gathered earlier this month at Ryerson University to address the issue of diversity in decision making and its importance as part of a joint workshop presented by DiverseCity and Maytree. Both organizations work at increasing the presence of underrepresented communities on boards, agencies and commissions to better reflect the communities they are serving.

An aging workforce and increasing immigration mean that the leadership potential for minorities is only going to increase. Currently in the GTA, minorities represent only 12.5% of board members in the voluntary sector and only 4.2% of boards in the corporate sector. With visible minorities representing closer to half the population in several urban centers, there needs to be better representation at the decision level. During the workshop the benefits of having inclusive and diverse boards were explored including generating better decisions, providing greater legitimacy, creating more effective fundraising opportunities and developing better responsiveness to the needs of the client and broader community. It was also brought up that religious inclusiveness should also be considered, as many environmental principles overlap with the spiritual aspects of various faiths.

ENGO’s face a bigger challenge in reaching this objective as minorities are already under-represented in many of the sectors within the environmental field. Several challenges arose during the discussions including geographic distribution of some industries and the demographics of smaller and rural communities. However, there are several proactive measures that organizations can take to ensure that diversity becomes incorporated into their culture. These include developing an outreach strategy, creating an effective board and fostering a culture of diversity. DiverseCity has also created a toolkit for non-profit boards to analyze their current decision-making and outreach practices.

For more information about this initiative, please visit: http://diversecitytoronto.ca/

Photo credit from Julie70

Our Common Voice: Protecting the Life Sustaining Gift of Water

IMG_03592

Mosaic Interfaith held its Annual Peace Meal this past Sunday at St. Luke’s Parish in Thornhill, Ontario. The event brought together leaders of different faiths to discuss pressing issues relevant to their congregations. This year’s theme was entitled “Our Common Voice: Protecting the Life Sustaining Gift of Water” and included a diverse range of speakers from the academic, religious and government backgrounds. The topic of water as a religious metaphor is present in all faiths. However, its future management depends on the recognition of its importance and the development of proactive and innovative conservation techniques.

Stephen Scharper, Associate Professor with the Centre for Environment at the University of Toronto was the keynote speaker and presented some of the spiritual, ethical and social justice issues pertaining to water management in Canada. He touched upon the Aboriginal relationship with water and how it is traditionally viewed within the family unit. He also shared his own poetic insights into the representation of water in faith and the importance of blending eastern philosophy with western science.

Cheri Buxton, an Environmental Technologist with York Region, also spoke of some of the water efficiency initiatives the region is involved with and introduced some elements of their recently released water conservation plan. Throughout her presentation she tied together the message of conservation from the individual to the community level and related its significance to future generations which resonated with the audience.

The second portion of the event involved a panel discussion and brought together representatives from seven faiths to share their perspectives on water. The panelists included Michael Kerr (Buddhism), Antoinette Agostinell (Christianity), Cliff Rajkumar (Hinduism), Prof. Hussein Khimjee (Islam), Rabbi Cory Weiss (Judaism), Raghbir Singh Samagh (Sikhism) and Dr. Jehan Bagli (Zoroastrianism).

All faiths expressed the importance of water as a sacred blessing to be protected and conserved. There were several themes that overlapped between the panelists which highlighted the similarities between the religions when it comes to water management.

1)    Water as a symbol of growth and rebirth: Within the Buddhist tradition, water was described as representing the nurturing and cultivating aspects of humanity. It brings forward life where it is barren and hydrates the mind, body and soul. In Christianity water is blessed and used in baptismal rituals as a rite of passage and in Judaism prayers are recited for rain during the growing season. 2)    Water as a path to purification and cleansing: In the Islamic tradition, water is central to spiritual purification before prayers, pilgrimage and at death. In Zoroastrianism, water and cleanliness are linked where cleansing of the body is seen as an avenue to cleansing the mind. Within Sikhism water is seen as a path to humility, as it always flows downwards and it plays an important role in daily ablutions. 3)    Water as a divine miracle: In the history of the Christian and Jewish faith, water was described in several miracles from Moses parting the Red Sea to Jesus changing water to wine. These miracles are celebrated today, often encompassing rituals involving water.

The lecture portion concluded with a ceremonial breaking of the bread with each representative reciting a prayer to bless the meal. The general response to the seminar was overwhelmingly positive with many participants eager to learn more about what they can do as individuals to ensure water remains a central tenant of their faith.

Mosaic Interfaith currently organizes the Out of the Cold program which provides overnight shelters during the coldest parts of the year and is operated by six interfaith communities in Southern York Region. For more information, please visit their website at: http://www.miotc.ca/

Windsor Islamic Centre Adopts Solar Power

There is another reason to look forward to sunny skies next year.

The Rose City Islamic Centre announced plans of a new solar project that will generate approximately 250 kilowatts of electricity for the surrounding community of Windsor, Ontario. The initiative will be carried out in partnership with Solgate Solar, a Woodbridge-based company that manufactures solar photovoltaic panels to meet the domestic content requirements of the Green Energy Act.

The new installation of 1200 solar panels will cover approximately 55 000 square feet of the facilities existing roof and will reduce carbon monoxide emissions by about 371 000 kilograms per year.  It is expected that the project will generate enough electricity to power 250 homes and will displace more than 4000 barrels of oil.

The inspiration for the project grew from a desire to invest in the future of the local community, both economically and socially. The venture will utilize Ontario-made products and will employ local labour to install and maintain the panels. The energy that is generated will be fed into the electricity grid and under the provincial feed-in-tariff; will generate another source of funding for social programs operating at the centre.

"We wanted to generate revenue to fund an expansion of our social service programs and also reduce our carbon footprint in the community," said Abdul Asfour, president of the Windsor chapter of the Muslim Association of Canada (MAC) whose organization also collaborated in the project.

It is expected the installation will be begin within the next few weeks with a completion date set for the end of this year.

For more information on the announcement, please visit:

Islamic centre to produce solar power – CBC

Windsor Islamic centre to product solar –  The Windsor Star

Photo credit from Tyler Brownbridge

Cleaning up our shared spaces

IMG_0313

The Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup rolled in on a high note this year with events scheduled across the country.  The week-long event was initiated by the Vancouver Aquarium over a decade ago and has grown into an annual national event that aims "to promote understanding and education about shoreline litter issues by encouraging Canadians to rehabilitate shoreline areas through cleanups." In 2010 alone, there were over 45,000 registered participants at 1,200 cleanup sites collecting a total of 98,000 kg of waste.

This year the Canadian Muslim Fellowship of Scouting participated in a clean-up at the Finch Meander located in the Rouge Park. The event brought together members of the public and the Muslim community and fostered a sense of stewardship among all participants. Some of the more unusual items that were collected included discarded tires, a remote control and old mattrasses. Many of the scouts and their parents indicated that the cleanup made them reflect on the amount of stuff that gets thrown out, especially when it comes to excessive packaging. At the end of the event there was a renewed sense of pride by all participants over what was accomplished and the positive contribution that was made to the environment.

For more information about the Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup, please visit: http://shorelinecleanup.ca/en

Food, Health and the Environment

"Eat from the good things with which We have provided you and do not transgress [or oppress others] therein, lest My anger should descend upon you. And he upon whom My anger descends has certainly fallen."             (Quran, 20:81)

This past Sunday, community members and activists came together to exchange ideas about the importance of making environmentally conscious and socially responsible food choices. The event focused on the health implications of the foods we eat and was fourth in a “Focus on Food,” Film & Discussion series offered through the Noor Cultural Centre in Toronto.

The event opened with a screening of a National Film Board documentary entitled Genetic Takeover or Mutant Food, which explores the rise of transgenic crops and the unknown health effects of genetically modified (GM) foods on human systems. The film highlighted the need for more research, stricter regulation and greater transparency when reviewing and approving GM foods for consumption. It also brought to light the issue of commoditization of the Earth’s resources, specifically manipulating the genetic makeup of plants and terminating its right to propagate. The film closes by stressing the importance of placing the public good ahead of corporate profits and following the precautionary principle before releasing GM products into the environment.

The discussion component was facilitated by Georgina Wilcock, a medical doctor specializing in Obstetrics and Gynecology who currently practices at the Scarborough Hospital. She has been an active participant in the environmental health field, running for the Green Party of Canada in the 2008 federal election and continues to support the party as its Health Critic. She is also involved with the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment and the Live Green Toronto initiative.

Georgina opened with a presentation examining some of the health issues associated with the foods we consume. The overuse of pesticides and the associated resistance have significant consequences within our own bodies and the environment at large. Chemicals that act as hormone disrupters, pesticides that bioaccumulate and toxins that persist in the environment are serious concerns in addition to the unknown health implications of GM foods. Meat products also have their own inherent health issues as well. Animals that are raised in feedlots face extreme stress from living in confined conditions and are given high doses of antibiotics to stave off infection. This contributes to lower quality meat that is higher in bacteria and lower in omega fatty acids. Georgina then poses the question of whether this is humane and does this follow the Islamic teachings of how animals should be treated?

Throughout the discussion several suggestions were offered on how we can both lessen our environmental footprint and eat healthier as well. These include:

1) Reducing the amount the meat we consume and to purchase meat that has been ethically and humanely raised; without the use of antibiotics or steroids and is fed a natural diet. 2) Purchase certified organic produce or better yet, try your hand at growing your own fruits and vegetables to ensure that it is completely natural and pesticide free. 3) Consider purchasing from local farmers so you can directly ask how your food was grown and how their animals are raised. Building relationships with farmers offers your piece of mind and supports your local economy.

For more information about upcoming events at the Noor Cultural Centre, visit their website or join Khaleafa.com on Facebook for future event postings.

Photo credit from Tantek Çelik

Eco-Friendly Eid Gifts

As Ramadan comes to a close, most of us are preparing for the upcoming celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr, which marks the end of the Muslim month of fasting.  Part of the tradition includes exchanging gifts with loved ones and spending time with family and friends. To add an environmental slant to the celebration; this year consider purchasing products that are sustainable, ethically sourced or fair trade.  Some suggestions from both Canadian and international retailers are listed below of products that not only make good gifts, but also minimize the impact on the environment.  

Planet Forward is a company that offers a wide range of sustainable products from reusable shopping baskets to environmentally-friendly cleaning products. Their stainless steel water bottles are by far their most popular product which comes in several cleverly named colours.  What makes this company even better is that a portion of their gross sales go towards supporting environmental organizations and their operations utilize clean, renewable energy offset by Bullfrog Power.

World Wildlife Fund Canada is one of the country’s leading conservation organizations whose goal is to prevent the degradation of the natural environment and to build a future in which humans live in harmony with nature. Their online store offers several products that follow this mandate, such as organic clothing and books. They also offer ‘animal adoptions’ which includes a personalized certificate, a plush toy and details on the work this gift will support.

For those looking for unique gifts, Ten Thousand Villages offers a diverse range of fair trade and sustainable products. Each item comes with its own artisan story and is made by handicraft and agricultural organizations based in low-income countries. On their website you search for product by category, or you visit them in person at their stores located across the country.

Grassroots is a one-stop shop for every kind of environmental product you could imagine. Their selection includes clothing, stationary, electronics, beauty products and toys. Right now they have a back-to-school collection which is perfect for those looking for practical gifts for students. They also have a large selection of natural cleaning products, detergents and soaps for those with chemical sensitivities.

Etsy has recently come into the mainstream for those interested in purchasing handmade, one of a kind, or customizable products. It boasts artists from across the world, with many products oriented toward Muslims and Islamic holidays. These include sustainable amber bamboo earrings, birch eco-wood Eid cards and Japanese dolls made from Eco-felt, which are manufactured from recycled plastic bottles. Thanks to Zaufishan for these suggestions.

Passing of Prominent Muslim Environmentalist

Ayman Ahwal, a prominent Muslim environmentalist, journalist and filmmaker passed away on August 16, 2011.  He was well-known in the United Kingdom for his advocacy work in Birmingham and abroad for his conservation work in Malaysia and Indonesia.  His extensive travels through the Muslim world reinforced the Islamic environmental ideals which he shared through numerous articles and short films, documenting how Muslims can live in harmony with nature.

In 2008, he was interviewed by EcoIslam Magazine and was asked about the impact “Islamic Environmentalism” can have on the struggle to save our planet. His response below sums up the principles he lived by and the message he strived to convey through his work. May Allah forgive him and grant him mercy.

This word ‘environmentalism’ sounds like just another distorted pseudo-scientific worldview like atheism, humanism, secularism, Islamism, etc! To be complete (insan al kamil) a Muslim should be as conscious of the natural environment as he is about other temporal preoccupations, as well as his nafs (ego), his ehsan (striving for excellence) and his ibadat (worship). The environment is about loving the Earth. To serve the people is to love Allah; to manage the Earth wisely is to love Allah. It’s like the other face of deen (faith). Without being conscious of the natural world a Muslim is out of balance. How then can he be expected to be khalifah (guardian) and see when nature is out of balance, as it truly is today?

Take Aim At Iftar Waste

O children of Adam, take your adornment at every masjid, and eat and drink, but be not excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess. (Qu’rán, 7:31)

Every Ramadan hundreds of thousands of Styrofoam (Polystyrene Foam) containers are used to serve the iftar meal at community gatherings. While it is an easy and cost-effective way to quickly deliver meals, the associated environmental and health concerns over its use are alarming. The call to eliminate Styrofoam has even reached Facebook, with a community page devoted to eradicating its use in mosques this Ramadan.

Environmental Implications:

There have been many studies analyzing the ecological effects of producing, transporting, and disposing of Styrofoam products and the effects it poses to the environment. In the production phase, the use of greenhouse gases (previously CFC’s, now HCFC-22) as a blowing agent has been linked to the deterioration of the ozone layer, which is a contributing factor to global warming. The three main chemical building blockings of Styrofoam are benzene, styrene and ethylene. On their own in high concentrations, they are highly reactive, flammable, and possess mutagenic and carcinogenic properties. There is ongoing research into the effects of combining these reagents together and the long-term implications to the environment.

There is also the issue of disposal. Many municipalities do not recycle Styrofoam and those that do often down-cycle the residual to other disposable products. In the United States, Styrofoam products make up only 0.25% of landfill waste by weight but take up 25-30% of space by volume. Considering that Americans discard more than 25 billion Styrofoam cups annually, the potential for waste diversion is enormous. Styrofoam that does not end up in the landfill often ends up in the general environment, where it breaks down into smaller pieces. This poses a hazard to wildlife that ingests it, as the toxins within it bio-accumulates up the food chain.

Health Implications:

There are well-documented acute health effects associated with the monomer styrene, one of the building blocks of Styrofoam. These include irritation to the skin, eye and upper respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts. Chronic exposure has been linked to damage to the central nervous system leading to fatigue, headaches and general weakness. Any level of exposure can lead to a syndrome called ‘styrene sickness’ which include symptoms such as unsteadiness and decreased nerve conduction. The styrene monomer has been identified as a possible human carcinogen by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).

There is ongoing research into the health effects of styrene when it comes into contact with food. Health Canada, which sets exposure limits for the monomer in this country, has not allowed the use of styrene as a food additive or in flavoring preparation, though it is still acceptable within the United States. It has also been noted that further exposure can occur from ingesting food or drinking beverages that have come into contact with styrene-containing polymers.

Alternatives: There are several alternatives to Styrofoam that are not only environmentally friendly, but also reduce ones exposure to chemicals (plasticizers) that can leach into foods. These examples can also be extended to cups, cutlery and water bottles which also significantly contribute to the waste stream during Ramadan.

1) Plant-based Containers - Over the last decade, several new products made from corn, bamboo, palm and sugar cane have reached the consumer market. These containers are recyclable, biodegradable and renewable compared to chemically-based containers, and are more sustainable over the long term.

2) Reusable Dishes - Glass, ceramic and stoneware dishes are an option for organizations looking to reduce their waste completely. While there is an added cost with purchasing and cleaning, there is substantially less waste generated over its lifespan compared to disposable containers. It also reduces the health effects associated with chemicals leaching from plastic or Styrofoam products.

3) Litterless Iftars - One way to completely reduce the production of container waste is to hold a litterless iftar. This idea has taken off in several mosques throughout the United States and is slowly gaining traction by Muslim student organizations here in Canada. Congragants attending the iftar would be required to bring their own reusable containers or rent one provided by the facility. This would reduce the clean-up time after the iftar and eliminate unnecessary waste.

This Ramadan consider the consumption choices you make and the potential waste that is generated. Starting with something simple such as the iftar and then expanding it into your daily routine goes a long way in changing our perception about waste, especially when it comes to disposable products.

For more information on Styrofoam and how you can make your iftar more environmentally friendly, please visit the following links below.

Striving Towards a Green RamadanGreen Ramadan - Let’s Make It Happen!Carex Canada – Styrene Carcinogen ProfileEarth Resource FoundationThe Styrene ForumA Recycling Revolution

Photo Credit from D’Arcy Norman

Five ways to green your Ramadan

“Now, behold! Your Lord said to the angels: I am placing upon the earth a human successor to steward it” (Qu’rán, 2:30).

On the eve of Ramadan, there are five simple ways you can make this month more environmentally-friendly. All of these suggestions set the foundation for green habits that can be implemented year-round.

1)Eliminate Waste:

This Ramadan there has been a growing movement to eliminate the use of Styrofoam containers and plastic cutlery to serve the Iftar meal. Consider alternatives such as plant-based containers and plastics that are compostable or organize a litterless Iftar where patrons bring their own containers. Also, try opting out of disposable water bottles. An estimated 88% of water bottles are not recycled in Canada and plastic bottles are the fastest growing segment of municipal solid waste in Canada.[1]  There are many reusable water bottle options from BPA-free plastic bottles, to aluminum and stainless steel flasks that are both inexpensive and lightweight.

2)  Purchase Local Produce/Organic Foods:

In our globalized economy, most of the food that reaches our dinner-plate has travelled hundreds if not thousands of kilometers. This Ramadan presents the perfect opportunity to get in touch with local farmers markets that are brimming with fresh produce. Not only will you reduce your carbon footprint but you will also be supporting your local economy. Also, try experimenting with organic produce either at the Suhur or Iftar meals. Organic foods taste different and generally contain no pesticides, herbicides, preservatives or other additives[2]. Be sure to check that the product is certified and what selection criteria was used.

3)  Reduce Energy Consumption:

There many ways to reduce your energy consumption throughout Ramadan. Turning the air conditioner on only when you are at home or sleeping will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and your energy bills. Closing open blinds, turning off lights and using fans to circulate air will also keep your home cool.  Similarly at the mosque, keeping doors closed when the air conditioning is on and dimming the lights also reduces energy consumption as well[3].

4)UseAlternative Transit Options:

If you do have access to car and plan to drive to the nightly Taraweeh prayers, try carpooling when possible. There are many youth and elderly within our community without access to a vehicle or reliable transit at night who would be more than grateful for a ride. Mosque parking lots tend to overflow with congregants during Ramadan, so the fewer number of vehicles actually increases traffic flow for everyone. Also, if you are within a reasonable distance from the mosque, consider taking advantage of the warm weather to ride your bike or walk to prayers.

5)  Give AGreen Donation:

There are many environmental organizations across Canada that promote, educate and conserve our natural resources. Consider making a donation this Ramadan to an environmental cause that resonates with you. Also, try becoming more involved in the political or policy making process by letting your elected leaders know that environmental issues are an important part of your faith and that you expect them to make it an important part of their platform as well.

[1] Project Blue – Roots and Shoots Canada Water Campaign

[2] Canada Organic Trade Association

[3] Natural Resources Canada – Tips on Saving Energy in Your Home

Photo Credits from Jasmine, Natalie Maynor,  P. Gordon, Tobias, Benson Kua & Paul Reynolds.

MuslimFest Goes Green

281433_10150273100371940_39860361939_7596841_483850_n

MuslimFest is an annual event held in Mississauga that recognizes and celebrates the Muslim arts, culture and entertainment industry here in Canada and abroad.  Every year it draws upon talented professionals, entrepreneurs and artists and showcases their work to the broader community. These include projects across the artistic spectrum, from visual arts and film to live comedy and theater.

This year the organizers have taken proactive steps to ensure the event is as environmentally friendly as possible. These include measures such as:

-          Partnering with Bullfrog Power to ensure the event uses 100% green energy

-          Offsetting carbon emissions through purchasing credits from Zero Footprint

-          Eliminating disposable plastic water bottles and replacing them with access to water filling stations

-          Reducing the waste generated by marketing and print material through smaller print sizes and quantities

-          Diverting waste products to the recycling stream where possible

A Green Exhibit was also was introduced at this year’s festival, to educate the community on conservation practices and introduce them to local environmental leaders.

For more information on the green initiatives at Muslimfest, please visit: http://www.muslimfest.com/muslimfest-is-green/

Photo Credit from Umar Nasir: http://iqra.ca/?p=5770

Rouge Valley National Park

Plans for Canada’s first true urban park were unveiled last Friday by the Conservative government in its throne speech. The Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, made the announcement as part of broader celebrations to mark the 100^th anniversary of our national parks system. The Rouge Valley straddles several municipalities  in the Greater Toronto Area including Markham, Richmond Hill , Toronto and Whitchurch-Stouffville and encompasses over 10 000 acres of creeks, forests, meadows and watersheds. The area has been described as a prime example of Carolinian forest, which has recently been threatened by increasing urban encroachment. The new designation brings with it added funding for patrols, educational programs and conservation efforts that will introduce a new generation to Canada’s parks. More details will emerge in the coming months as relevant stakeholders meet to discuss the future transition of the park.

Recently several planting events have taken place within the Rouge Valley. In late March, The Canadian Muslim Fellowship of Scouting participated with the GTC Scout and Guide groups in their annual Tree Planting and Wildlife Habitat Restoration Day at the Bob Hunter Memorial Park; a 500 acre parcel of environmentally sensitive land that was recently added to the Rouge Park. In late April, a joint collaboration called Plating Faithfully was formed between the Islamic Foundation of Toronto, Darchei Noam Synagogue, and Friends of the Rouge Watershed to help promote environmental stewardship and sustainability through interfaith dialogue. The event exchanged various faith-based perspectives on the environment and closed with joint planting ceremony in the Rouge Valley.

For more information on the Rouge Park, please visit: http://www.rougepark.com/

To learn more about current conservation efforts, please visit: http://www.rvcc.ca/

Khaleafa.com

As interest in the environmental movement continues to grow, many Muslims are revisiting their faith in an effort to identify the contributions Islam can bring in promoting greater environmental awareness. Muslims across the world have quickly adopted and adapted the green movement; spearheading new projects in their own communities and collaborating with other faith groups to address a broad range of common issues, ranging from animal rights to water management. Within Canada, Muslims are already involved in a diverse range of projects aimed at encouraging conservation, reducing waste and participating in ecologically-sensitive consumption. While there has been success in practicing the Islamic teachings surrounding the environment, there lacks a central forum for the exchange of ideas and recognition of our community’s accomplishments.

The term ‘Khaleafa’ is the Arabic term for steward and represents the sacred responsibility that has been bestowed upon us by Allah. The concept of stewardship is the inspiration of this project and has formed for the foundation for discussion of the environmental ideals already present within the Islamic faith. The goal of this website is to reignite the discourse surrounding the Islamic approach to environmentalism and to draw upon the essence of these teachings, emphasizing the movement from a Canadian perspective.

As Canadians we are intrinsically connected with the environment. The Canadian wilderness conjures up images of pristine lakes, vast tracts of forests and endless coastlines. Although most of us live in urban areas, we identify with these cultural symbols and have incorporated them into our national identify.  It is safe to assume that Muslim Canadian attitudes reflect similar national trends. While the community as a whole has only recently recognized the future potential of the environmental movement, the Islamic tradition is rich in progressive conservation ideals based on the Islamic teachings of the Quran and Sunnah.  It is only though awaking the stewardship responsibility inherent to all of us will we be able to develop new solutions to reversing the environmental problems plaguing our planet.

Let’s become stewards of the earth

“It is he (Allah) that has appointed you (mankind) as stewards in the Earth…” (Qu’rán, 35:39)

As Earth Day 2011 quickly approaches, many of us take this opportunity to reflect and participate in annual community events aimed at reducing our environmental impact on our planet. Every year more than 6 million Canadians join over 1 billion people globally in 170 countries in staging events designed at raising awareness of the environment[i].

As Canadians we are intrinsically connected with the environment. The Canadian wilderness conjures up idealized images of pristine lakes, vast tracts of forests and endless coastlines. Although most of us live in urban areas, the multi-billion dollar outdoor and recreation industry indicates most of us seasonally enjoy the great outdoors[ii].

However our perception of nature is changing with 56% of Canadians rating the overall quality of the environment in their province as good or better. Many of us are concerned with the growing impact of climate change (85%) and our perception of the quality of the environment in general indicates it is getting worse (47%)[iii]. With growing concern over the future of our planet, the mandate of Earth Day has shifted from increasing awareness of environmental issues to outlining proactive steps individuals can take to reduce their ecological footprint[iv].

It is safe to assume that Muslim Canadian attitudes reflect similar national trends. While the community as a whole has only recently recognized the future potential of the environmental movement, the Islamic tradition is rich in progressive conservation ideals based on Islamic teachings of the Quran and Sunnah. Muslim countries have quickly adopted the green movement with new projects appearing in Jordan, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. There are many proactive steps Muslims can take in their everyday routines that adhere to the Islamic perspective of stewardship and conservation.

Water

Do not the Unbelievers see that the heavens and the earth were joined together (as one unit of creation), before we clove them asunder? We made from water every living thing. Will they not then believe? (Qu’rán, 21:30).

Consider the water you drink. Was it you who brought it down the rain cloud or We? If We had pleased, We could make it bitter: why then do you not give thanks? (Qu’rán, 56: 68-70)

Water is the sustenance of life, however we often take it for granted not realizing its true value. As freshwater resources become scarce, the future management is becoming increasingly important.  Simple steps can culminate in saving large volumes of water over the long term.

-          Ensure the fixtures in your homes, offices, schools and mosques are water efficient and be mindful of you water use. Monitoring your water consumption not only identifies potential cost savings but adheres to the Prophet’s teaching surrounding its use.

-          Make conscious purchasing decisions that include the hidden costs of water. It may surprise you to find out the amount of water that goes into the consumer products we purchase and foods we eat. There are many online tools that help you calculate the true water costs of everyday items.

-          Become familiar with your municipality’s water conservation plan and become engaged in the long-term management of water in your community. Various levels of government routinely consult with the public on the future direction of water use and its value to society.

Waste

And He gives you of all that you ask for. But if you count the favours of Allah, never will you be able to number them. (Qu’rán, 14:34)

It is He Who has brought into being gardens the trellised and untrellised – and the palm trees, and crops, all varying in taste, and the olive and pomegranates, all resembling one another and yet so different. Eat of their fruits when they come to fruition and pay His due on the day of harvesting. And do not waste (God’s bounties): verily, He does not love the wasteful. (Qu’rán, 6:141)

Waste is something that has become endemic in our society. With the rapid evolution of technology and the spread of consumerism, we purchase, consume and discard material goods faster than any period in history. Waste has become incorporated into every aspect of our lives from excessive packing to disposable products but can be easily avoided by returning back to the basics of the 3R’s

-          Reduce: Before making a purchase, think about if you really need the item to begin with. Reducing what you consume can be the most liberating action you can take.  Many of our purchasing choices are driven by impulse derived from clever marketing campaigns. Preplanning can help with this by creating a list of items you need before you leave home and budgeting accordingly. At your mosque, consider holding litterless iftars this Ramadan and encourage your administration to adopt a green sourcing clause in its purchasing policies aimed at minimizing waste.

-          Reuse: This goes beyond reusing glass jars and old boxes. Think about alternate uses for an old item or someone else who would make better use of it. Books can be passed on to local libraries, toys can be donated to community centers and children clothes can be exchanged with friends and family. At home consider installing a greywater system that uses rainwater for non-potable uses such as flushing toilets or in the garden. Also, think about purchasing reusable products as opposed to disposable. Not only will it be more economical, but will also reduce your own ecological footprint.

-          Recycle: Most urban municipalities today have some form of recycling program in place. Several provinces have environmental fees for the safe disposal of electronics, tires, chemicals and other waste solvents that recover the valuable components of used products and safely dispose of the residual waste. While this only deals with the end product, the only way to truly eliminate waste is to avoid unnecessary purchases to begin with. Consider purchasing items that are designed for the environment; which are dismantable and can be easily recycled into other products. 

Nature

“There is none amongst the Muslims who plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person or an animal eats from it, but is regarded as a charitable gift for him.” (Bukhari, Vol3, B:39-513).

Corruption has appeared on the land and in the sea because of what the hands of humans have wrought. This in order that we give them a taste of the consequences of their misdeeds that perhaps they will turn to the path of right guidance (Qu’rán, 30:41).

As stewards of the natural world, we have a responsibility to ensure that the principles of Islam are enshrined in the management of the environment. This starts with taking a proactive role in local communities as well as being included in the national discourse surrounding the future direction of environmental policy. Several measures can be taken to bring the environment to the forefront of these discussions.

- Become involved with your local conservation authority or national/provincial park. Many run outreach events for both children and adults that include aspects of conservation, education and monitoring of both wildlife and plant species.

- Consider organizing your own clean-up, tree planting event or community garden at your local mosque. Events like this bring together communities around a common goal and enhance the natural surroundings for worship.

- Perform outreach with other faith organizations that have similar environmental goals.  Decision makers are more inclined to listen to a unified voice that represents all faith communities and possible barriers can be broken down through interfaith dialogue.

While Earth Day may be one day out of the year for many Canadians, the stewardship responsibility of the planet should be a daily consideration of all Muslims.  Simple steps in your daily routine can minimize your individual ecological impact and create a more livable environment consistent with Islamic teachings of the Quran and Sunnah.

---

[i] Earth Day Canada (2011) Celebrated every April 22, Earth Day is the largest, most celebrated environmental event worldwide. Last Accessed April 20 2011 at:  http://www.earthday.ca/pub/about/history.php

[ii] Statistics Canada (2009) Summary statistics for the amusement and recreation industry, Canada, 2009. Last Accessed April 20 2011 at: http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/63-248-x/2011001/t001-eng.htm

[iii] Martyn, Chris. (2007) Getting Real – How Do Canadians View the Environment and Energy? Ipsos Reid. Last Accessed April 20 2011 at: https://www.ipsos-na.com/knowledge-ideas/public-affairs/ipsos-ideas/Default.aspx?q=getting-real-how-do-canadians-view-the-environment-and-energy-

[iv] Statistics Canada (2009) Households and the Environment. Last Accessed April 20 2011 at: http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/11-526-x/11-526-x2007001-eng.pdf

Photo Credit from Hamed Saber: http://www.flickr.com/photos/hamed/

Translating our Faith into action: making a difference for the environment

Members from Toronto’s faith groups gathered this past Sunday to discuss a common theme affecting their congregations: What can we do to make a difference in the environment? The event entitled “Translating our Faith into Action: Making a Difference for the Environment” was organized by OIKOS in conjunction with the University of Calgary with the goal of equipping faith communities with the necessary resources to translate their spiritual teachings into effective public action.

Keynote speakers included Bishop Linda Nicholls from the Anglican Church of Canada, Shaikh Habeeb Alli from the Canadian Council of Imams and Rabbi Rav Roy from the Canadian Yeshiva and Rabbinical School.

All three panelists shared their experiences on the ethical and spiritual responsibilities all faiths have as stewards over the environment and brought to light several commonalities their traditions share including a communal responsibility over the earth and mutual respect for all creation.

Also contributing to the dialogue was Keith Stewart from Greenpeace Canada, who is also a member of the Green Budget Coalition.

This alliance of environmental organizations provides annual recommendations in advance of the federal budget and has a history of working with all levels of government to achieve long-term environmental sustainability, a key theme that carried throughout the event.

Among his insights on the green movement in Canada, Keith outlined several components faith groups can adopt to incorporate environmental advocacy into their spiritual teachings and how together this can be used as a learning tool to educate their congregations about the importance of the natural world.

Three avenues were presented where faith groups can utilize resources already present within their respective communities to increase their exposure to environmental issues:

1)     Ability to draw strength from their religious convictions: Faith groups can encourage an alternate perspective on environmental advocacy which resonate with politicians as they generally speak the language of society and represent a set of common shared values.

2)     Ability to raise issues that are unpopular or inconvenient: Issues that are politically sensitive can be discussed from a spiritual perspective, such as environmental implications on future generations, which generates dialogue in a non-confrontational setting.

3)     Faith groups have powerful resources within their congregations: Members encompass a diverse range of individuals who wield power within the public and private sector. They also bring together a wide range of skills and ideas on approaching and resolving different issues.

For more information about OIKOS and links to future retreats, please visit http://www.ucalgary.ca/oikos/Retreat/