Plastic ban for Ramadan urged as British Mosques go green

Several Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) affiliates and mosques across the United Kingdom (UK) are opting for a plastic-free Ramadan this year. Harun Khan, Secretary General of the MCB, said, “As Muslims fast in Ramadan to be closer to God, it is important be mindful of His creation and care for the environment when we […]

Several Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) affiliates and mosques across the United Kingdom (UK) are opting for a plastic-free Ramadan this year.

Harun Khan, Secretary General of the MCB, said, “As Muslims fast in Ramadan to be closer to God, it is important be mindful of His creation and care for the environment when we are facing global warming. We’re glad therefore that many mosques are leading the way by banning plastics at mosques. We hope many more will get involved and ensure their congregations opt for an eco-friendly approach. We all must play our part in protecting the Earth.”

York Mosque and Islamic Centre have introduced re-usable cups, plates, cutlery and branded water bottles, as part of a no single-use plastics policy at it’s daily iftar (breaking fast) meals.

Green Lane Masjid in Birmingham are going green by banning plastic water bottles, instead introducing drinking water fountains and branded re-usable water bottles, to minimise the environmental impact of plastic waste. The initiative is in partnership with ecobirmingham.

A GLMCC spokesman said: “Over Ramadan, Green Lane Mosque and Community Centre is visited, on average, by over 3,500 people every night and over 5,000 people on the weekends and busier nights. It’s estimated that we distribute an average of 800 to 1,000 bottles every evening in Ramadan. This generates a shocking amount of plastic waste. With this in mind, we have taken the decision not to issue plastic water bottles to our congregation this Ramadan”.