MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, MAGELANG – Muhammadiyah raises the notion of saving the world as the main focus of its 111th anniversary due to its concern for alarming environmental degradation.
General Secretary of Muhammadiyah Abdul Mu’ti mentioned that Muhammadiyah had discussed the issue of climate change since the 47th Congress (Muktamar) of Muhammadiyah.
Many studies revealed that several aspects, such as population, economy, and humans, render climate change.
A UK newspaper (2005) reported that the average global temperature rises by five degrees annually. Consequently, it crucially requires solemn actions to prevent ongoing global warming and avoid potential catastrophic outcomes.
“If we let this happen without making any prevention of global warming, the world may confront serious problems,” said Abdul Mu’ti in the Forum Mimbar (a focus group discussion) at Universitas Muhammadiyah Magelang on November 10.
The rise in global temperatures will cause the polar ice to melt, leading to an increase in sea levels. The land will then experience a drop below sea level.
Besides, land subsidence is exacerbated by excessive exploitation, including the extraction of minerals, affecting the Earth’s equilibrium. The extraction of groundwater for human consumption and other mining activities also plays a role.
As a result, as mentioned by some experts, Jakarta is estimated to sink by 2100 because its land continues to decline while sea levels continue to rise.
“Persistent flooding could lead to heightened groundwater salinity, resulting in the demise of various species and hindering plant growth.” he explained.
Continued flooding may elevate groundwater salinity, posing risks to diverse species and impeding plant growth,” said Mu’ti.
Muhammadiyah’s Call to Save the World
Mu’ti called for all humanity to address global warming, a phenomenon directly impacting life on Earth. He emphasized the necessity of guiding and encouraging people to make changes in response to climate change.
Mu’ti invites all humans to stop global warming, which directly impacts life. People must be guided and led to make changes to address climate change.
In line with this, in the lead-up to the 111th Muhammadiyah anniversary celebration on November 18, 2023, the Global Forum for the Climate Movement is scheduled for November 16, 2023, at Universitas Ahmad Dahlan (UAD), Yogyakarta.
“Change is an integral part of our commitment to save the world,” said Mu’ti.
Surah Ar-Rum verse 41 mentions human responsibility for environmental degradation.
Abdul Mu’ti, added that environmental damage can also result from development policies lacking ecological balance. Issues such as mismanaged public transportation and neglect of renewable energy contribute to hastening potential environmental catastrophes.
In sectors like agriculture, climate change impacts the planting schedules of farmers, with unpredictable dry and rainy seasons causing delays. Additionally, extreme rainfall often leads to flooding after planting.
Mu’ti highlighted the insufficient awareness of environmental preservation, particularly among religious communities. Despite Muhammadiyah’s early initiatives, including crucial documents on Environmental Theology and resolutions on Global Warming, public awareness remains low.
On a global scale, Mu’ti criticized forums addressing temperature reduction, asserting that their policies often prioritize business interests over the broader community. He cited an example that the commitment to lowering the average global temperature from 5 to 2 degrees in certain global forums was followed by introducing the term “carbon trade.”
With its overarching theme, Muhammadiyah will host a world forum addressing climate change, unveiling the Muhammadiyah Climate Center as a testament to its commitment to environmental preservation.
