THE CONCEPT OF ECOTHEOLOGY IN ISLAM AND ITS RELEVANCE TO SDGS-BASED ZAKAT DISTRIBUTION

Abstract

This study discusses the concept of Islamic ecotheology and examines its relevance to the distribution of zakat funds based on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The objective is to analyze the alignment between SDGs-based zakat distribution particularly those directed toward the environmental development pillar and the principles of Islamic ecotheology. This research employs normative legal research (doctrinal approach) using secondary data, which includes primary, secondary, and tertiary legal materials collected through literature and document studies. The data were analyzed qualitatively using a deductive reasoning method.

The results indicate that Islamic ecotheology positions humans as khalifah (stewards) on earth, responsible for managing natural resources wisely and equitably based on the principles of tawhid (oneness of God), khalifah (stewardship), balance, amanah (trust), ecological justice, and maslahah (public benefit). One of its practical implementations is through environmentally oriented zakat distribution, also known as green zakat. This aligns with one of the SDGs pillars environmental development. Based on a legal hermeneutic analysis and teleological interpretation, Islamic ecotheology is highly relevant to the SDGs-based zakat distribution model. This study contributes to the understanding that Islam is a comprehensive religion that governs all aspects of life wisely and remains adaptable to contemporary global challenges. The novelty of this research lies in the analysis of the concept of ecotheology in environmentally based zakat distribution, which is linked to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) framework.