ABSTRACT
This chapter analyses traditional Islamic principles concerning the physical environment of Muslims, and as such, the principles could work as a culturally sensitive framework for urban sustainability. The attention paid by the Islamic tradition to both the natural and urban environments is reflected through certain principles that are clearly found in the Qur’an and Sunnah. Other principles have grown within the traditional built environment of early Muslims. Islam has established Man’s responsibility towards the natural environment. This responsibility evolves from the role of man as God’s khalifa (inheritor) on Earth. Although Islam asks people to benefit from the natural environment for their living necessities, it requires them to maintain it. Many Qur’anic verses and Prophetic hadiths command Muslims not to abuse or damage plants and animals.
