HOW DO we see our future? Local politicians and faith-based communities have a great deal in common when it comes to answering that question – as they found out at the recent Faith in Environment Summit 2024.

The Summit was held at the London Muslim Centre – hosted by the East London Mosque and Tower Hamlets Council. Over 200 people – from faith groups, other community groups, and politicians – came together to discuss our environment: how can we hold back the changes that are for the worst, and how can we promote the changes for the better?

“Faith communities have a crucial role in fostering sustainability and environmenta responsibility,” said ELM CEO Junaid Ahmed as he welcomed everyone to the Summit. “Our partnership with Tower Hamlets Council reflects a shared commitment to tackling the climate emergency through community-driven action rooted in Islamic teachings.”

Executive Mayor of Tower Hamlets Lutfur Rahman spoke about the actions the Counci has taken to counteract climate change by reducing its carbon footprint. A massive £10m has been invested in home insulation, and the Council is planning to introduce electric waste collection vehicles. “Working with faith institutions amplifies our ability to engage residents and create a greener, more resilient borough,” he explained.

It was left to Martin Cottingham from Zamzam International UK to remind everyone these are global issues. He spoke about the urgent need to take collective action to reduce global emissions and to support those most at risk. He pointed out that climate change could have a devastating effect on two countries with which Tower Hamlets has special ties: Bangladesh and Somalia.

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