From such sources...

From such sources, Muslims can derive that they must walk on the earth with gentleness and compassion, avoid abundance and waste in resources, affirm sacredness to nature, and work with people of all backgrounds in addressing the environmental issues of today. Past the work of hands-on groups and academic writers, there is the need for a sacred science.

The loss of the metaphysical sciences, and hence the studies of higher meanings of natural phenomena as well, has contributed greatly to the vulgarized view of nature today, which in turn has contributed to its ill treatment. Since modern science sees nothing more than the physical in nature, it cannot but treat it as a physical resource alone. Thus, an affirmation of the sacredness in nature from the scientific community is needed.

Given the current state of modern science, this goal might seem overly ambitious; however, it remains the reality of the situation. If modern science is unyielding in its determination to study and collect information on only the physical, then it must at least let go of its claim as the only science and allow others to interpret such studies and information on a higher level.

A revitalization of traditional and sacred sciences such as metaphysical cosmology and alchemy can help to give back nature its sacredness in the eyes of humanity. It is up to those with an understanding of natural theology or the sacred sciences to revitalize their fields in the public sphere. This can help break the cycle of modern humanity’s continuous mistreatment of the environment. Even though modern science has inflicted much harm on nature, it has recently developed ways of amelioration.

This is especially found in today’s conservational efforts and environmental engineering initiatives. These efforts should not be ignored, but rather supported. They represent means to a potential peace and their development must be encouraged and promoted. It is an integral part to reducing the human negative impact on the environment.

With an understanding of the religious, activist, academic and scientific approaches to the environmental crisis, it is important that the methodologies associated with them are not undertaken in an individualistic manner. Instead, they must be addressed holistically.