Green Zakat and Environmental Sustainability

Abstract

ABSTRACT
The global environmental crisis demands solutions that not only focus on ecological aspects but also consider social and spiritual dimensions. One emerging approach is Green Zakat, a concept that integrates the function of zakat with environmental conservation efforts. This study aims to analyze the basic concept of Green Zakat from an Islamic economic perspective, identify its implementation in zakat institutions in Indonesia, and evaluate its contribution to environmental sustainability. This study uses a literature review method with a descriptive qualitative approach, sourced from secondary data in the form of books, scientific journals, zakat institution reports, and other relevant literature. The results show that Green Zakat has a strong sharia foundation through the principle of maqashid sharia, particularly hifz al-bi'ah, as well as the concepts of amanah and khalifah in protecting the earth. The implementation of Green Zakat in Indonesia is reflected in various environmental programs, such as reforestation, mustahik waste banks, environmentally friendly agriculture, renewable energy for poor households, and clean water management. These programs contribute positively to the achievement of SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land), while improving the welfare of mustahik through the strengthening of the green economy. However, this study confirms that there is a gap because studies on the integration of zakat and environmental issues are still limited. Thus, Green Zakat has the potential to become a strategic instrument in accelerating sustainable development if it is supported by clear regulations, increased human resource capacity, and cross-sector collaboration.
Keywords: Green Zakat, Maqashid Syariah, Environmental Sustainability, Green Economy, Islamic Social Finance