Dr. M. Adib Abdushomad, M.Ed., Ph.D
In an increasingly divided world, the responsibility to protect nature stands as one of the few universal calls that transcends religion, ethnicity, and ideology. It is a duty that belongs not to any particular group, but to all of humanity — and to all beings that share this Earth.
At the heart of this shared responsibility lies natural law — the intrinsic order woven into the universe by the Creator. Regardless of one’s beliefs or lack thereof, natural law remains observable, consistent, and binding. Gravity does not distinguish between the faithful and the skeptical; ecosystems thrive or collapse according to principles that no human decree can override.
This universality offers a powerful foundation for building an inclusive environmental ethic. Every major tradition — spiritual, philosophical, or scientific — acknowledges, in its own way, the sacredness of nature. In Islamic teachings, humanity is seen as khalifah, or stewards of the Earth. In indigenous wisdom, nature is family. In scientific inquiry, ecosystems are interdependent webs of life whose health is crucial for survival. As suggested by Janet Mc Intyre (2003) argues that in a current situation working across boundaries and joint up the dot, become so crucial as part of global citizenship to protect our mother nature. We are all responsible to save the earth that we live in.
Thus, ecology must not be seen merely through the lens of any one theology. It is a reflection of a deeper, cosmic order that binds all creation together. Recognizing this truth calls us to move beyond religious, cultural, and political boundaries. It demands a unified commitment to protect what has been entrusted to us.
Today, this commitment is more urgent than ever. Climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation are not distant threats; they are realities affecting every corner of the planet. The worsening ecological crisis is a testament to humanity’s collective failure to respect the laws of nature.
Eco–theology Policy
What, then, must be done? It begins with a shift in awareness: to see nature not as a resource to be exploited, but as a living testament to the Creator’s work — a trust to be safeguarded. We must act locally and globally: conserving water, reducing waste, restoring ecosystems, and advocating for sustainable policies. Beyond action, it requires a renewal of humility — to remember that human is not above nature, but a part of it.
According to Prof. Dr. Nasaruddin Umar, MA as mentioned at Ministry of Religious Affairs Regulation (KMA number 244/2025) that one of key crucial of today natural disaster is because of the wrong approaches toward the environment or mother nature. Humans tends to use Antro-phocentrisme in which see our nature as an object to be exploited. Nasar further explains the important of eco-theology through his policy which aims to promote a new approaches in theological framework that see nature as part of transcendental responsibility toward God the creator of this universe. Having this mindset, it is expected that the universe is actually the resonance of the blessing from God for His all mankind. For this reason, the destruction of the universe equally with God disobedience.
In honoring natural law, we honor the source of life itself. Protecting nature is not merely an environmental obligation; it is a moral one — for believers and non-believers alike. It is a shared journey of returning to balance, living with reverence, and securing the future for generations yet unborn.
If we listen carefully, we can still hear nature’s call — a timeless invitation to live in harmony with all that is.
By Dr. Rudolf Wirawan and Dr. M. Adib Abdushomad, M.Ed., Ph.D
About the authors:
Dr. Rudolf Wirawan is an environmental advocate and founder of the BIMA initiative, dedicated to bridging technology, indigenous wisdom, and ecological regeneration for a sustainable future. He serves on the editorial board of Mathematics and Computer Science and has led transformative projects promoting circular economies and community empowerment.
Dr. Muhammad Adib Abdushomad is a leading voice for interfaith harmony and environmental stewardship, serving as the Head of the Center for Religious Harmony at Indonesia’s (PKUB) Ministry of Religious Affairs. His work champions religious moderation, inclusive dialogue, and the integration of ecological ethics into public life.
