Islamic Religious Education Students’ Perceptions of Environmental Awareness from Islamic Ecotheology Perspective

Abstrak

Environmental degradation and the growing urgency of ecological responsibility highlight the need to strengthen environmental awareness within Islamic education. Islam positions humans as khalifah fil-ardh, endowed with the moral and spiritual responsibility to safeguard the earth. This study aims to examine the perceptions of Islamic Education (PAI) students regarding environmental awareness through the lens of Islamic ecotheology. Using a descriptive quantitative approach, data were collected from 108 PAI students using a 40-item questionnaire measuring five key dimensions: knowledge of Islamic ecotheology, environmental attitudes, ecological behavior, institutional support, and digital technology integration in environmental learning. Descriptive statistical analysis was employed to calculate the mean scores and standard deviations. The results indicate that all dimensions fall within the high category. Environmental attitudes achieved the highest mean score, demonstrating strong affective internalization of ecological values grounded in Islamic teachings. Ecotheological knowledge and ecological behavior also showed high levels, although a moderate gap between attitude and practice was observed. Institutional support and digital technology integration were positively perceived by students, suggesting that campus initiatives and digital tools contribute meaningfully to eco-oriented Islamic learning. The study concludes that Islamic ecotheology provides a robust foundation for fostering environmental awareness among PAI students. Strengthening ecotheology-based curriculum design, supported by institutional initiatives and digital pedagogical strategies, has the potential to cultivate future Muslim educators who are committed to environmental sustainability.