World leaders, campaigners, activists, and industry representatives are currently convening in the UAE for the pivotal COP 28 – UN Climate Change Conference.
Having attended COP26, the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) made a commitment to raising greater awareness around climate change and sustainability within UK Mosque communities. The MCB launched a 6-step guide to eco-friendly Mosques, which included a 10-point environmental pledge list for Mosques that was utilised by Mosques across the UK.
This conference marks yet another a significant moment in humanity’s ongoing quest to tackle climate change, accelerate climate action. It is a time to reflect, strategise, and commit to more ambitious goals to safeguard our planet for future generations.
The planet is already 1.2 degrees above pre-industrial levels, whilst the Paris Agreement (2015) was committed to keeping it within 1.5C. Emissions are higher than ever globally, and we are on track for 3 degrees of warming by 2100, which would be catastrophic for hundreds of millions of people across the globe – increasing the frequency and severity of flooding, heat waves, drought, coastal areas disappearing and drinking water shortages to name but a few consequences.
As we engage in these crucial discussions, our thoughts remain with our Palestinian, Congolese and Sudanese; all of whom remain subject to the abject horror of onslaughts fuelled by unrestrained militarism. It is vital to remember that the military-industrial complex remains a premiere polluter and destroyer of climate, peoples and their lands.
Zara Mohammed, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Britain, said:
“Climate rights are human rights. While we gather to discuss the future of our planet, let us not forget those who are overcoming daily battles for survival, standing in the face of catastrophic violence and devastation. Our environmental efforts must go hand in hand with a commitment to curtailing militarism in favour of justice and peace for all oppressed peoples across the globe especially the ‘Global South’.
“As we move forward, the Muslim Council of Britain reaffirms its commitment to promoting environmental stewardship, guided by the principles of our faith, we must all do more to tackle the climate emergency and safeguard the future of generations to come. We will continue our work to promoter greener communities and climate action.”
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