THE FUTURE OF COMMUNICATION: A SYARIAH PERSPECTIVE ON GREEN TECHNOLOGY

 

The year 2050 is not far off, and the trajectory of human communication is poised for a dramatic shift, largely driven by the convergence of green technology and evolving societal needs. This article explores the potential future of communication in 2050, focusing on how green technology will shape this landscape and examining these developments through the lens of Syariah teachings.

Green Technology: A Catalyst for Change

Green technology, or clean technology, encompasses a wide range of innovations aimed at minimizing environmental impact. In the realm of communication, this translates to:

• Renewable Energy Sources: A shift away from fossil fuel-dependent data centers towards renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydro power. This will significantly reduce the carbon footprint of communication infrastructure.
• Energy-Efficient Devices: The development of more energy-efficient devices, from smartphones and laptops to network infrastructure, will further minimize energy consumption.
• Sustainable Materials: The use of recycled and biodegradable materials in the manufacturing of communication devices will reduce electronic waste and promote a circular economy.
• AI-Powered Optimization: Artificial intelligence (AI) can optimize communication networks, reducing energy consumption while maintaining or even improving performance.

 

Syariah Principles and Green Communication

Syariah, the Islamic legal system, provides a comprehensive framework for human conduct, encompassing social, economic, and environmental dimensions.³ Several key principles of Syariah are particularly relevant to the future of green communication:

• Hifz al-Nafs (Preservation of Life): This principle emphasizes the importance of safeguarding human life and well-being. Green technology, by reducing pollution and mitigating climate change, directly contributes to hifz al-nafs.
• Hifz al-'Aql (Preservation of Intellect): Access to information and communication is crucial for intellectual development and societal progress. Green technology can ensure equitable access to communication services, promoting hifz al-'aql.
• Hifz al-Nasl (Preservation of Progeny): A sustainable environment is essential for the well-being of future generations.Green communication technologies can play a role in educating and mobilizing communities towards environmental conservation, thus contributing to hifz al-nasl.
• Hifz al-Mal (Preservation of Wealth): Green technology can promote economic sustainability by reducing energy costs and creating new green jobs. This aligns with the Syariah principle of hifz al-mal, which encourages responsible economic practices.
• Hifz al-'Ird (Preservation of Honor): Green communication can facilitate respectful and constructive dialogue, promoting social harmony and upholding hifz al-'ird.

 

 

While the potential benefits of green communication are significant, several challenges and considerations must be addressed:

• Digital Divide: Ensuring equitable access to green communication technologies for all segments of society is crucial.
• Data Privacy and Security: The increasing reliance on digital communication raises concerns about data privacy and security. Syariah principles of privacy and confidentiality must be upheld in the design and implementation of green communication technologies.
• Ethical Use of AI: The use of AI in communication networks raises ethical considerations. It is essential to ensure that AI is used responsibly and does not exacerbate existing inequalities.
• Social Impact: The social impact of green communication technologies must be carefully considered. It is important to ensure that these technologies do not disrupt social cohesion or exacerbate existing social tensions.

 

Conclusion

The future of human communication is inextricably linked to the development and adoption of green technology. By aligning these advancements with the principles of Syariah, we can create a communication landscape that is not only sustainable but also just, equitable, and conducive to human flourishing. This requires a multi-stakeholder approach, involving policymakers, technologists, and civil society, to ensure that the benefits of green communication are shared by all.

 

KESAN BUMI HIJAU TERHADAP KOMUNIKASI MANUSIA DALAM 50 TAHUN AKAN DATANG

 

Dalam tempoh 50 tahun akan datang, pelaksanaan bumi hijau yang berfokus kepada kelestarian alam sekitar akan membawa perubahan ketara terhadap cara manusia berkomunikasi. Bumi hijau, yang menggalakkan penggunaan teknologi lestari dan sumber tenaga diperbaharui, mempunyai kesan langsung terhadap komunikasi manusia dari sudut teknologi, sosial, dan spiritual.

1. Perkembangan Teknologi Hijau

Penggunaan teknologi hijau seperti komunikasi tanpa wayar menggunakan tenaga solar atau sumber mesra alam lain akan mengurangkan kebergantungan kepada teknologi konvensional yang mencemarkan alam sekitar. Dalam Al-Quran, Allah berfirman:

"Dan janganlah kamu merosakkan di bumi setelah Allah memperbaikinya; itu lebih baik bagimu jika kamu benar-benar orang yang beriman."
(Surah Al-A'raf, 7:56)

Ayat ini menekankan pentingnya menjaga keseimbangan alam. Dengan menerapkan teknologi hijau, komunikasi dapat dilakukan tanpa merosakkan alam sekitar, selari dengan prinsip menjaga bumi sebagai amanah.

2. Kemudahan Akses dan Hubungan Sosial

Teknologi mampan yang mesra alam, seperti rangkaian berkuasa tenaga bersih, akan memungkinkan komunikasi lebih murah, pantas, dan inklusif. Dalam masyarakat moden, hubungan jarak jauh akan menjadi lebih erat melalui peranti hijau, meningkatkan keupayaan untuk bekerjasama secara global. Ini juga memberi ruang untuk mempererat silaturahim, sesuai dengan hadis Rasulullah SAW:

"Barang siapa yang ingin diluaskan rezekinya dan dipanjangkan usianya, maka hendaklah dia menyambung silaturahim."
(Hadis Riwayat Bukhari dan Muslim)

Hubungan erat antara manusia yang difasilitasi oleh teknologi hijau mencerminkan keberkatan daripada pelestarian alam.

3. Penerapan Nilai Spiritual dalam Komunikasi

Komunikasi manusia dalam dunia hijau akan cenderung kembali kepada fitrah manusia sebagai khalifah yang bertanggungjawab. Kesedaran ini bakal memupuk nilai kejujuran, keadilan, dan amanah dalam interaksi. Seperti firman Allah:

"Sesungguhnya Aku hendak menjadikan khalifah di muka bumi..."
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:30)

Sebagai khalifah, manusia bertanggungjawab memanfaatkan teknologi dengan bijaksana tanpa menjejaskan keseimbangan ekosistem dan nilai keimanan.

Penutup

Dalam era bumi hijau 50 tahun akan datang, komunikasi manusia tidak lagi hanya bergantung pada teknologi, tetapi akan lebih berlandaskan pada tanggungjawab kepada alam, keperluan sosial, dan nilai spiritual. Melalui pendekatan ini, kemajuan teknologi hijau bukan sahaja akan mencipta kehidupan yang lestari tetapi turut memupuk kesatuan dan keberkatan sejajar dengan syariat Islam.