MOSQUE, NATURE, AND CLIMATE CHANGE: ISLAMIC ECOLOGICAL ETHICS IN MASJID AL-MUHARRAM YOGYAKARTA

Abstract

Global climate change has become one of the most serious challenges to the sustainability of life on Earth. Since 1880, the global average temperature has increased by 1.2 degrees Celsius. Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13 emphasizes the importance of collective participation in climate change mitigation. Within the Muslim community, the concept of the eco-mosque has emerged as a concrete manifestation of Islamic ecological ethics grounded in the principles of khilāfah (human stewardship over the Earth), iḥsān (benevolence and care), and amānah (responsibility to preserve creation). Al-Muharram Mosque, located in Dusun Brajan, Bantul, Yogyakarta, stands as a pioneering example of the embodiment of these ecological ethics since 2013—well before the Green Mosque initiative was globally introduced at COP22 in Morocco in 2016. The mosque has implemented various environmentally friendly innovations, including eco-conscious architecture that maximizes natural air circulation and lighting, the construction of infiltration wells to harvest rainwater and ablution water, the installation of solar panels as a renewable energy source, and the establishment of the Shadaqah Waste Movement (Gerakan Shadaqah Sampah, GSS), whose proceeds are allocated to social, educational, and health programs for the local congregation. Employing a qualitative approach through interviews, observations, and literature review, this study explores how Islamic theological values are translated into sustainable practices at Al-Muharram Mosque. The findings reveal that Al-Muharram not only meets the criteria of an eco-friendly mosque but also serves as a living model of Islamic ecological ethics that integrates spirituality, environmental awareness, and community empowerment. Through these initiatives, Al-Muharram Mosque contributes significantly to environmental conservation and climate change mitigation, reaffirming the relevance of Islamic teachings in caring for the Earth.