**1. Introduction**

This paper considers how Islam, through the prescriptions of the Holy Qur'an and the Sunnah of prophet Mohammad (Peace be upon him), provides guidance on the relationship between humans and the rest of the creation. Muslims consider the Holy Qur'an as the message from God the Almighty and Creator of the universe, as transmitted to humanity through the messenger and of prophet Mohammad (Peace be upon him). Several verses of the Holy Qur'an speak to the creation of the heavens and the earth, and all that is between them. If applied correctly and concretely, Islamic principles can highly contribute to the protection of the environment and the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.

This starts with the conceptual understanding of ecological ethics of Islam, according to which Muslims believe that the universe has been created in measure and balance, with and order that humans should refrain from disrupting. As a part of creation, humans stand in a specific state of privilege owing to their ability to act with conscience. Such a situation of privilege of humankind implies an immense responsibility to act as trustee in the preservation of the Creation, including the protection of the environment.

From a more practical perspective, Islam prescribes a behavioural attitude towards all elements of the Creation, based on the trusteeship and the notion that everything in the Creation has an intrinsic value, and that nothing has been created without a purpose. From the consumption of resources, like water and food, to how a Muslim acquires and disposes of his/her wealth, Islam provides practical guidance for behaviour which are not only moral ethics, but religious obligations. Such is the case with the obligation of the practice of Zakat (obligatory tax) and the fasting during the month of Ramadan. Such guidance has relevance in the context of current environmental challenges such as climate change, the loss of biodiversity, pollution and sustainable production and consumption.

The first part of the paper presents the conceptual basis of ecological ethics in Islam and discusses environmental education in Islam. The second part discusses select environmental policy issues facing the world today and how Islamic religious principles and obligations help address them. The paper concludes with insights and suggestions for further research and analysis.
