In Chicago, Muslim spirituality at the service of urban ecology

An innovative initiative is taking root in Chicago where a religious organization combines faith and environmental action. The Chicago Muslims Green Team (CMGT), under the leadership of Layalee Beirat, is developing innovative ecological projects in the American metropolis.

The organization, which collaborates with different spiritual communities, particularly focuses on transforming places of worship into environmentally friendly spaces. These “green buildings” adopt ecological practices such as installing solar panels or eliminating plastic products.

The project is part of a worrying local context. South Chicago, where the organization is particularly active, has pollution and cancer rates significantly higher than the city average. The association draws its inspiration from sacred texts which advocate respect for nature and preservation of the environment. “We are a mercy to all creation,” explains Beirat, “this includes plants, birds, mountains, the sea and everything in between.” The CMGT also runs a tree planting program in partnership with local authorities, primarily targeting disadvantaged neighborhoods. This approach, combining spirituality and practical ecology, illustrates a new form of environmental commitment in the service of the general interest.

This initiative is part of a broader movement of interfaith mobilization for the environment. Across the United States, many religious communities are now engaged in the fight against climate change, viewing the protection of nature as a spiritual duty. Chicago’s new mayor, Brandon Johnson, actively supports these local initiatives. Its environmental policy includes more rigorous monitoring of pollution, investments in local ecological groups and concrete measures such as banning gas in new construction.