Development becomes sustainable from the Islamic perspective when it is observant of

equilibrium (mizan), moderation (wasatiyyah), and considerations of social equity. Mizan and
wasatiyyah expound the two dimensions of the divinely-ordained balance in creation. Mizan is mainly
concerned with the celestial universe and the place of planet earth in the grand scheme of creation,
whereas wasatiyyah teaches moderation in all aspects of human conduct. Violation of mizan and
extremism in human conduct amount to what the Qur’an describes in so many places as fasad
(corruption and decay). It is caused by human aberrations and indulgence in extremism, including the
sustained destruction of the earth’s ecosystems, causing disturbances in the predicament of the earth
itself, or senseless bloodshed and brutalities. All these are symptomatic of fasad striking its roots
among human individuals and societies. Sustainable development under such conditions can at best
be partial and deficient. Whereas some countries and communities are better placed and able to
protect themselves from the vagaries of human transgression and fasad, the vast majority are unable
to do so.