Book Review: Generasi Terakhir: Aktivisme Dunia Muslim Mencegah Perubahan Iklim dan Kepunahan Lingkungan (The Last Generation: Muslim World Activism in Preventing Climate Change and Environmental Extinction)

Fachruddin M. Mangunjaya’s Generasi Terakhir: Aktivisme Dunia Muslim Mencegah Perubahan Iklim dan Kepunahan Lingkungan (The Last Generation: Muslim World Activism in Preventing Climate Change and Environmental Extinction) is a seminal work that delves deeply into the intersection of Islamic values and environmental activism. This book is not merely a call to action but a comprehensive exploration of how the principles of Islam can be harnessed to combat the escalating crisis of climate change and environmental degradation. Through a meticulous blend of theological discourse, ecological analysis, and practical examples of activism, Mangunjaya crafts a narrative that positions the Muslim world at the forefront of the global environmental movement.

Generasi Terakhir is structured around the central thesis that Islam, with its rich tradition of stewardship and respect for creation, holds the potential to inspire a powerful movement against environmental destruction. The book is divided into several key sections, each addressing different facets of this argument. The opening chapters lay the groundwork by discussing the current state of the global environment, emphasizing the urgent need for collective action to address climate change and biodiversity loss. Mangunjaya provides a stark overview of the environmental challenges we face, from deforestation and species extinction to the more insidious effects of climate change, such as rising sea levels and increased frequency of extreme weather events. In these chapters, Mangunjaya argues that these challenges are not merely scientific or political issues but deeply ethical ones. He contends that the global environmental crisis is, at its core, a crisis of values—a crisis that can only be addressed by reorienting our moral compass towards a more sustainable relationship with the natural world.

One of the most compelling aspects of Generasi Terakhir is its exploration of Islamic environmental ethics. Mangunjaya draws extensively from the Qur'an, Hadith, and the writings of classical and contemporary Islamic scholars to articulate a framework for what he terms "eco-religiosity." This concept embodies the idea that environmental stewardship is not just an ethical duty but a spiritual imperative for Muslims. Mangunjaya argues that Islamic teachings offer a holistic view of nature as a manifestation of God’s creation, entrusted to humans as stewards or "khalifah" (caliphs) on Earth. This stewardship entails a responsibility to protect and preserve the environment, ensuring that it can sustain life for future generations. He further explores the Islamic principles of mizan(balance), amana (trust), and adl (justice), demonstrating how these concepts can guide Muslim communities in their environmental activism. This section of the book is particularly powerful because it challenges the notion that religion and science are inherently at odds. Instead, Mangunjaya presents a vision of environmentalism that is deeply rooted in faith, arguing that the spiritual teachings of Islam can and should inform our responses to environmental challenges.

Mangunjaya’s theoretical discussions are complemented by a series of case studies that showcase real-world examples of Muslim environmental activism. These case studies are drawn from various Muslim-majority countries, including Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Middle East, as well as Muslim communities in non-Muslim-majority countries. One of the most striking examples is the work of Islamic boarding schools, or pesantren, in Indonesia, which have embraced environmental education as part of their curriculum. Mangunjaya highlights how these institutions are not only teaching students about the importance of environmental stewardship but are also implementing sustainable practices on their campuses, such as organic farming and waste management. Another notable example is the role of Islamic leaders and organizations in promoting sustainable practices within their communities. Mangunjaya discusses initiatives such as the "Green Hajj," which encourages pilgrims to minimize their environmental impact during the pilgrimage, and the "Green Mosque" movement, which advocates for mosques to adopt eco-friendly practices. These case studies serve as both inspiration and evidence that Islamic environmentalism is not merely a theoretical construct but a vibrant and growing movement. They also illustrate the diversity of approaches that Muslim communities are taking to address environmental challenges, reflecting the adaptability and relevance of Islamic teachings in the modern world.

While Generasi Terakhir is a passionate and well-researched work, it is not without its challenges. One potential limitation is the book's heavy reliance on Islamic theology, which may limit its accessibility to non-Muslim audiences or those less familiar with Islamic teachings. The book’s focus on Islamic principles and the Muslim world is, of course, deliberate and necessary given its purpose, but it might not engage readers looking for a more secular or interfaith perspective on environmentalism. Another area that might benefit from further exploration is the book's engagement with contemporary scientific discourse. While Mangunjaya effectively integrates environmental science with religious teachings, there are moments where a deeper dive into the scientific aspects of climate change could strengthen the overall argument. This would not only enhance the book's appeal to a broader audience but also reinforce the compatibility of religious and scientific approaches to environmentalism. Despite these minor criticisms, Generasi Terakhir remains an invaluable contribution to the literature on religion and environmentalism. It is particularly relevant for Muslim readers, offering a framework that is both spiritually fulfilling and practically effective. Mangunjaya’s work underscores the potential of religious communities, and particularly the Muslim world, to play a significant role in addressing one of the most pressing issues of our time.

In conclusion, Generasi Terakhir: Aktivisme Dunia Muslim Mencegah Perubahan Iklim dan Kepunahan Lingkungan is a thought-provoking and timely work that challenges the global Muslim community to take a leading role in the fight against climate change. Fachruddin M. Mangunjaya has crafted a narrative that is both deeply rooted in Islamic tradition and highly relevant to contemporary environmental challenges.The book serves as a call to action, urging Muslims to embrace their role as stewards of the Earth and to integrate environmental activism into their spiritual practice. Through its combination of theological insight, practical examples, and passionate advocacy, Generasi Terakhir offers a powerful vision of how the Muslim world can contribute to a more sustainable and just future. For scholars, activists, and anyone interested in the intersection of religion and environmentalism, this book is an essential read. It not only provides a comprehensive overview of Islamic environmental ethics but also inspires readers to consider how their own beliefs and practices can contribute to the global effort to protect our planet.