THEOLOGY OF CREATION AND DEVELOPMENT: RELIGIOUS INSIGHTS ON ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

By

Cyprian Obiora Alokwu

Department of Religion and Human Relations

Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria

Abstract 

The connection between religious viewpoints and environmental preservation has grown in importance in the current discourse on sustainability. Numerous theological traditions, which place a strong emphasis on stewardship, ecological harmony, and environmental justice, provide deep insights about humanity’s duty to take care of creation. Faith communities are inspired to participate in conservation, ecological restoration, and policy change advocacy by the intersection of faith and environmental ethics, which impacts views toward sustainable development. Religious teachings create moral principles that direct environmental awareness, impacting both personal conduct and organizational procedures. Notwithstanding these beneficial effects, there are still major obstacles in the way of the full implementation of faith-based environmental participation. Financial constraints, misunderstandings of religious scriptures, and opposition from specific religious groups are some of these difficulties. A theological reinterpretation is necessary to solve these problems, as is active involvement from religious leaders and cooperation with legislators and environmental organizations. Using content analysis of religious beliefs, environmental regulations, and faith-based ecological projects, this study uses a qualitative research methodology. Results show that religion teachings are effective environmental conservation accelerators when properly interpreted and applied. Faith-based lobbying promotes moral approaches to sustainability and fortifies international environmental projects. According to the study’s findings, including religious perspectives into environmental action and policy promotes a more comprehensive and ethically sound approach to sustainability. In order to address pressing ecological issues and guarantee long-term stewardship of the planet, strategic alliances between governments, religious institutions, and environmental organizations will be essential going forward.