Will there be accountability for wasting natural resources and harming the planet?

Question : Are we Responsible & Will be held Accountable on the Day of Judgement for wasting Natural Resources & Causing harm to Planet Earth ? Like Water , Cutting Tree’s Deforestation , Not using Public Transportation ? Lately I have observed that using Jacuzzi Bath tub waste lot of water And Using My Own Car causes Air pollution as it adds to release of Carbon Dioxide . As there’s an option to use bus 🚌 as well ( A public Transport ) . But what if a person has obsession with water .And they clean their hands several times in just 10 minutes?

Priase to be Allah

Summary:

There is a difference between israaf when it is done needlessly and heedlessly and Using resources for need . In Islam, we are indeed responsible for our actions regarding the use of natural resources and the harm we may cause to the planet. This responsibility extends to the waste of water, deforestation, and unnecessary pollution, as well as to our choices in daily living that could mitigate these harms. Islamic teachings emphasize moderation and the avoidance of wastefulness, and we will be held accountable on the Day of Judgment for our stewardship (khalifah) of the Earth.

Detailed Answer:

Responsibility and Accountability in Islam:

Islam teaches that humans are stewards (khalifah) of the Earth, entrusted with its care and responsible for maintaining its balance.

It is He who produces both trellised and untrellised gardens, date palms, crops of diverse flavours, the olive, the pomegranate, alike yet different. So when they bear fruit, eat some of it, paying what is due on the day of harvest, but do not be wasteful: God does not like wasteful people.
(Quran 6:141)

Various Islamic resources emphasize the importance of using natural resources wisely and avoiding waste. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) advised against wastefulness even when water is abundant. He said,

The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, passed by Sa’d while he was performing ablution. The Prophet said, “What is this extravagance?” Sa’d said, “Is there extravagance with water in ablution?” The Prophet said, “Yes, even if you were on the banks of a flowing river.”
(Musnad Aḥmad 7065)

Difference Between Necessity and Excess:

In Islam, the concept of israaf (extravagance) refers to wasteful use of resources done needlessly and heedlessly. It is condemned because it disregards the blessings provided by Allah and fails to fulfill our duty as stewards of the Earth.

1. Water Usage:
   • Necessity: Using water to clean dishes or perform ablution (wudu) for prayers is necessary.
   • Waste: Leaving the tap running without reason is israaf and wasteful.
2. Deforestation:
   • Necessity: Cutting down trees for cultivation or building essential infrastructure is necessary.
   • Waste: Deforesting land to create golf courses or for ornamental purposes may fall into israaf and wastefulness.
3. Air Pollution:
   • Necessity: Using a car for necessary travel, such as commuting to work or transporting goods, is permissible.
   • Waste: Leaving the car engine running while parked for extended periods is israaf, wasting fuel and contributing to pollution.
4. Electricity Usage:
   • Necessity: Using electricity for essential needs like lighting, heating, and cooking is necessary.
   • Waste: Leaving lights and appliances on when not in use, out of disregard, is israaf and wasteful.

Obsessive Use of Water:

For individuals with obsessive tendencies, such as frequent hand washing, it’s crucial to balance cleanliness with moderation. Islam recognizes conditions like Waswas (whispers from Shaytan) that lead to compulsive behaviors. Seeking medical advice and religious counseling can help manage such tendencies in accordance with Islamic teachings.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Islam teaches us to be responsible stewards of the Earth. Wasting natural resources, causing deforestation, and contributing to pollution are actions we will be accountable for. Moderation, conservation, and making choices that benefit the environment align with Islamic principles. There is a clear distinction between using resources out of necessity and engaging in excessive use or waste, known as israaf. We should strive to balance our personal needs with our duty to protect and preserve the planet, seeking guidance from scholars and implementing practical steps in our daily lives.

And Allah Knows Best