Dear Kids, Assalam-o-Alaikum
In our beloved country Pakistan, the signs of environmental degradation are becoming increasingly apparent. Rising temperatures, erratic weather patterns, frequent floods, and dwindling natural resources are the foremost challenges we are facing today. These challenges include climate change, global warming, overpopulation, increasing pollution and the pressing issue of water conservation. It is imperative for us all, especially you, the youth of Pakistan, to realize the gravity of this situation, and take proactive steps towards preserving our planet.
    The scarcity of clean water, rapid population growth, urbanization, and industrialization have put immense pressure on our water resources, leading to pollution and shortages in many parts of the country. It’s time for us to recognize the value of this precious resource and take meaningful steps to conserve it. Whether it’s fixing leaky faucets, practicing rainwater harvesting, or supporting initiatives to clean up our rivers and lakes, every action counts. Similarly, we cannot ignore the alarming rate of pollution plaguing our cities and countryside. From smog-choked skies to litter-strewn streets, the effects of pollution are all around us. It’s up to us, the youth of Pakistan, to be the agents of change. By reducing our carbon footprint, advocating for cleaner energy sources, and promoting sustainable practices, we can make a tangible difference in the fight against pollution. Climate change knows no borders, and its impacts are felt by all, regardless of nationality or creed. As citizens of this planet, it is our collective responsibility to address this global challenge with urgency and determination. By working together, we can create a brighter, more sustainable future for ourselves and for generations to come. Let us rise to the occasion, be the guardians of our environment, and become the architects of a better world. Yes, together we can make a difference.
Dear Friends!
To address this issue on our part, we have exclusively dedicated the ‘Special Edition’ of Hilal for Kids this month, though we hardly miss highlighting it in regular editions too. May I tell you, as children of Pakistan, we are really fortunate to be part of a highly rich culture that is deeply rooted in golden principles of cleanliness, preservation of resources, and harmony with nature. If you deeply delve into the lengths of the principles of our religion, and keenly go through the Quran, and Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH), you will see that Islam and its teachings are very close to Nature. Rather, I would say, had Islam and its principles been followed by the populace across the globe at least in the past few centuries, the issue of climate change and global warming would not have been faced by us with such a bigger magnitude. “And do no mischief on the earth after it has been set in order: that will be best for you, if ye have Faith”. (Quran’s Surah Al A’raf, Verse 85)
    Please go through the write-up ahead titled “Golden principles of good life: Moral values a pivot to clean environment”, it discusses in detail how the teachings of Quran and the Sayings of the Prophet (PBUH) address religiously protecting the environment, saplings and taking care of trees, being kind and merciful to animals, pets and overall wildlife, prohibiting trampling of crops and greenery on ground, clearing of pathways for travelers and riders, and keeping safe the clean drinking water for sake of humanity. From the preservation of water in ablution to Islam’s injunctions against wastefulness, our faith provides us with a guiding light in our quest for environmental sustainability.
    But, dear young ones, it is not enough to simply acknowledge these teachings of Islam; we must actively incorporate them into our daily lives. Each drop of water saved, each piece of trash recycled, and each tree planted brings us one step closer to a greener and more sustainable future. Let us not forget the words of the Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him), who said, “The world is beautiful and verdant, and verily God, be He exalted, has made you His stewards in it, and He sees how you acquit yourselves.” (Muslim) Let our will be to preserve and protect our planet, for ourselves, for future generations, and for the glory of God. 
Let’s act now!

Farooq-uz-Zaman