Al Haqeeqa
“How sad to think that nature speaks and mankind doesn’t listen”
-Victor Hugo
Climate change is the biggest threat we face, one that impacts all of us equally here on Earth. We all have the responsibility and power to make changes. According to research, the “current warming trend is of particular significance because most of it is extremely likely (greater than 95 percent probability) to be the result of human activity since the mid-20th century.” This means, if we’re the ones causing it, then there must be a way that we can also minimize it.
What makes climate change and environmental sustainability an even hotter issue is the finite nature of it – we just don’t have enough time. The effects of climate change have already been catalyzed: temperatures are rising, ice sheets are melting, sea levels are rising, ocean acidification is taking place and extreme climate is knocking on our doors. And, like always, the disadvantaged will bear the brunt of the aftermath while those who can afford it will pack their bags and move. This means we need to get to work. And we need all hands on deck.
This is where we come in, with a new column on sustainability and lifestyle here at Muslim Girl that equips you with everything you need to know. The goal with this column is to create awareness about climate change and global warming, but also to shed light on the importance of our personal lifestyles. Sure, we may not always have the power to create political changes, but we have control over our lifestyle choices. Anything from what we consume, to what we eat is a way in which we envision the world we want. Also, it’s a way we exercise our power to put pressure on this system: a system that exploits our beautiful planet.
The effects of climate change have already been catalyzed. tweet
But often, the issue of climate change and global warming seems too big to tackle – maybe even too political for the average person. Let’s throw all of that away. Let’s begin to think a bit differently about the power we have as individuals. What if I told you “animal agriculture is responsible for 18 percent of greenhouse gas emissions, more than the combined exhaust from all transportation?” Or that, the fashion industry produces unbelievable amounts of waste and pollution? The truth is, everything we do and consume has an environmental impact. The system that we’re apart of has made it extremely difficult to live in a way that is in line with the wellbeing of our planet.
The purpose here is to challenge that system and create an alternative way of living that is sustainable and green. How, you ask? Stay tuned for our weekly blogs on low-carbon food, fashion, workout routines and travels. And time-to-time, we’ll even get political and talk about the connection between climate change and race and gender. Of course, we’ll be sharing DIY recipes to help you make your very own natural products. And, what better place to discuss faith and spirituality than on this column? The beauty of the planet is a great way of connecting to our source.
And now, on to you: got questions or comments, let us know below.
