Category: Interesting Read

Interesting Read (Science, Green Technology, Nature, etc.)

Chicago Muslims Green Team Explores Gut Health at Green Teacher Gathering

Posted on by CMGT in CMGT News, Green Idea, Info, Inspiration, Interesting Read

Author: Sara Siddiqui

The Chicago Muslims Green Team recently had the pleasure of attending the Green Teacher Gathering in Chicago—a vibrant event bringing together educators, gardeners, and sustainability advocates from across the city. Among the many inspiring sessions, one workshop stood out for its blend of science, culture, and hands-on learning: “Bacteria is my Gut’s BFF.”

Led by the dynamic and passionate Chef Sarai Blankenbaker or Chef BB, the workshop took us deep into the fascinating world of the gut microbiome. We explored how beneficial bacteria play a crucial role in digestion, immunity, and overall well-being, and how our gardens can be sources of healing and health.

Chef BB introduced us to an array of prebiotic and probiotic foods we can grow ourselves—like cabbage, carrots, and hot peppers—and demonstrated how to transform them into delicious, fermented creations.

We had the chance to taste homemade kombucha and sample vibrant fermented veggies made by Chef BB herself, learning about the unique flavors and health benefits of these traditional preparations. We left not only with new knowledge, but also with a kombucha recipe, step-by- step fermentation methods, and a deeper appreciation for how different cultures—including indigenous communities—have used fermentation as a sustainable, health-supporting practice for generations.

This workshop aligned beautifully with the Chicago Muslims Green Team’s vision of cultivating environmentally responsible, health-conscious communities rooted in Islamic values. It reinforced our commitment to connecting spiritual well-being with ecological stewardship, and highlighted how growing and preparing our own food can nourish both our bodies and our planet.

We’re excited to put this knowledge into practice and to continue creating spaces where learning, community, and sustainability come together.

Pictures from the Green Teacher Gathering at Academy for Global Citizenship on Saturday, April 5, 2025.

CMGT table at the Green Teacher Gathering.

Green Deen: What Islam Teaches about Protecting the Planet

Posted on by Asma Ashraf in Interesting Read

In 2018, I gave a speech on the case for the reusable coffee mug at the Downtown Islamic Center Toastmasters Open House and the launch of the Chicago Muslims Green Team (CMGT), and I won a book, Green Deen: What Islam Teaches about Protecting the Planet. I recall researching the devastating effects of single-use coffee mugs and feeling overwhelmed at the sheer amount of actions needed to protect our environment. As I read Abdul-Matin’s book, I was overcome by a sense of peace and hope.

Photos Courtesy of Abdul-Matin via ibrahimabdul-matin.com

Abdul-Matin begins his novel by sharing that Islam is a Deen, which means a religion, a path, and a way of life. The premise of his book is that the Earth is a mosque, and we need to protect it and take care of it. Through his experiences as a policy advisor and as a Muslim, he shares unique insights within the four sections of the book: Waste, Watts, Water, and Food. While there are certainly connections to Islam throughout each section, he also shares knowledge and advice that are applicable to all readers without delving into their spirituality.

Society’s mass consumption stood out greatly within the Waste section. The unique history behind Watts, or Energy, was eye-opening for me. As were Abdul-Matin’s insights into Water and Food. He utilizes a personable way to connect with readers to share his knowledge about the practices and policies that have led to our current environment, along with what it means to be socially responsible as a company and as a consumer. Through empowering the reader by sharing the effects of the power of our choices to shape our world, he inspires readers to take positive steps to protect and nurture our environment.

As Abdul-Matin writes, “The Earth is a mosque.” Through taking the steps to treat the Earth as a place of worship, as a place that is our refuge, and a place where we can both learn and rest, we can move towards protecting our environment for both ourselves and future generations. This book is a fascinating read on the current state of our environment, how it came to be this way, and how we can work to protect and nurture our planet.

All About Recycled Plastic Clothing and What You Should Be Wary Of

Posted on by Kaylee Craig in Interesting Read

Did you know that your laundry load could be releasing microplastics into waterways in your region?

If your clothing or other household fabrics are made of synthetic fibers (plant-derived or petroleum-derived) such as Polyester, Nylon, Acrylic, Rayon, Fleece, Microfleece, Spandex, and Acetate, then they’re releasing microplastics into the environment through the sludge left over after wastewater treatment.

Fortunately, there are solutions to this problem. This article explores the problem in depth through the trend of recycled plastic clothing and offers some solutions. It is worth noting that the article doesn’t mention that natural fibers (e.g., cotton, linen, wool, silk, etc.) don’t pose a problem, since they easily biodegrade.

If you want to learn more about the microplastic problem, there is a ton of research out there on this topic that will help you understand the impact on your region and some possible solutions. For more information visit https://www.onegreenplanet.org/lifestyle/all-about-recycled-plastic-clothing-and-what-you-should-be-weary-of/