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New Perspectives on Environmental Protection through the Lens of Religion

In early October, diverse participants from around the globe gathered – both in person and virtually – at the International Symposium on Innovative Mosques (ISIM) 2024 to discuss eco-friendly practices within places of worship. The three-day event, held in Surakarta City, Central Java, served as a forum to connect faith-based teachings with climate action and inclusivity.

The International Symposium on Innovative Masjid (ISIM) 2024: Eco-friendly Mosque, Climate Change, and Future Generation, held from October 1st to 3rd, 2024, provided a pivotal platform for exploring the crucial role of houses of worship and of religious leaders in fostering environmental conservation and addressing climate change, aligning with SDG 13. Organised by the Directorate General of Islamic Community Guidance of the Ministry of Religious Affairs of Indonesia, in collaboration with the Grand Mosque Istiqlal Jakarta and the Grand Mosque Sheikh Zayed Solo, the event brought together prominent leaders, thinkers, and advocates dedicated to reimagining the role of mosques for the 21st century. Attendees could join online or at the Swiss-Belhotel Solo in Surakarta City, Central Java.

Recognizing Exemplary Mosques

The symposium commenced with the Anugerah Masjid Percontohan dan Ramah awards, recognising exemplary mosques known for their dedication to inclusivity and community service. This award ceremony highlighted the vital role of religious institutions in promoting community engagement and was a fitting prelude to discussions on fostering environmental conservation and addressing climate change.

Dynamic Sessions on Faith and Environmental Action

Over the next two days, a series of plenary sessions and panel discussions provided attendees with diverse perspectives on mosques’ role in addressing urgent social and environmental issues.

PaRD WECARE Workstream Leads, Dinesh Suna (World Council of Churches Ecumenical Water Network) and Ruth Faber (EU-CORD), participated virtually in a plenary session on October 2nd, sharing their insights on faith-based approaches to sustainable development. Faber shared reflections on the Anglican Church’s commitment to achieving Net Zero by 2030 and highlighted initiatives like A Rocha’s Eco Church Programme, a framework helping Christian communities embrace eco-friendly practices. Suna introduced the Walk the Talk Toolkit, a resource designed to support congregations in practicing ecological justice.

Another highlight was a series of parallel discussions, where attendees engaged with 54 selected presenters chosen through a competitive call for papers. Focused on the theme of “Masjid Ramah Lingkungan” (Environmentally Friendly Mosques), these sessions showcased innovative approaches to sustainability within mosque communities.

Launch of New Book on Inclusive and Eco-Friendly Mosques

The event concluded with the launch of the new book, “Inovasi Mewujudkan Masjid Ramah untuk Kemaslahatan Semua” (Innovation for Implementing a Friendly Mosque for the Benefit of All). This publication serves as a comprehensive guide for mosques aiming to foster inclusive, welcoming spaces while prioritising environmental responsibility.

Opening the ISMS 2024. Credits: MoRA's Media Team
Highlight from ISIM 2024
Impressions from the ISMS 2024. Credits: MoRA's Media Team
Ruth Faber shares her insights on faith-based approaches to sustainability. Credits: MoRA's Media Team
Dinesh Suna discusses ecological justice and the role of religious leaders in climate action. Credits: MoRA's Media Team

This article was written by the PaRD member Ministry of Religious Affairs of Indonesia and edited by the PaRD Secretariat.