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Hinduism:
‘There is no life that is inferior. All lives enjoy
the same importance in the Universe and all play their
fixed roles. They are to function together and no link in the
chain is to be lost. If some link is lost, the whole ecological
balance would be disturbed.’
Islam:
‘Allah has invited us to partake of the fruits of the
earth for our rightful nourishment and enjoyment, He has
also directed us not to waste that which Allah has provided
for us – for He loveth not wasters. Furthermore, Allah has
also ordered us to administer his responsibilities with
justice. Above all, humanity should conserve the balance
of Allah›s creation on Earth.’ (UNEP, 1999)
The current state of resource depletion and ecosystem
degradation evident in the ocean today suggests that we
have lost this sense of guardianship. Recognising our
dependence on the healthy functioning of the ocean is the
necessary first step in redressing this loss. Developing an
ecological world-view that acknowledges that dependence
seems to be the critical next step in providing a framework
for sustainable development in our relationship with the
ocean. The UN Sustainable Development Goals are a way
to guide our efforts towards global human well-being in
harmony with nature, both on land and in the oceans. In
this regard there is much we can learn from the wisdom
of our ancestors preserved in our traditions, cultures,
myths, and ready for us to rediscover.
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