Legal Soundscapes:

Exploring Noise Pollution Under Islamic Law

Kathafi Izzat Abdel Hadi Al Ghananim

Kabiru Goje

Amjad MHD Atef Alhenawi

 

Abstract: Noise pollution, as a pervasive and often underestimated form of physical contamination, poses serious environmental, social, and public health challenges worldwide. It disrupts ecosystems, causes psychological distress, and contributes to various health conditions, making it a pressing issue that demands legal and ethical scrutiny. This study aims to investigate noise pollution through the lens of Islamic law, analysing its concept, harmful impacts, and relevant jurisprudential rulings. Given the growing concerns over urbanisation, industrialisation, and technological advancements, understanding noise regulation from an Islamic legal perspective is crucial to ensuring environmental justice and public welfare. Employing an analytical and comparative methodology, the research explores the fundamental principles, regulatory mechanisms, and ethical obligations embedded within Islamic jurisprudence, including legal liabilities, penalties, and preventive measures. The findings highlight that noise pollution is explicitly prohibited under Shariah principles, as it contravenes established guidelines aimed at preserving public welfare, mental well-being, and social harmony. Furthermore, the study emphasises the preventive and corrective nature of Shariah-based regulations, which govern behavioural conduct across diverse social and environmental contexts to mitigate the adverse effects of noise pollution. A key recommendation is integrating Islamic legal principles with contemporary environmental policies to enhance noise pollution control strategies, promote sustainable urban development, and reinforce ethical responsibility among individuals and communities. These insights contribute to the broader discourse on environmental ethics, sustainable development, and legal frameworks, offering a nuanced perspective on the intersection of environmental protection, social justice, and Islamic jurisprudence.