Chicago area Muslims push for a 'green' Ramadan

Chicago-area Muslims say they've got an additional focus during the holy month of Ramadan — the environment.

Officials with the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago launched several green initiatives Monday, the first day of the Islamic month marked by fasting and prayer.

The efforts follow a resolution adopted by Illinois legislators a few weeks ago designating Ramadan as a "Green Month."

Council spokeswoman Alexandra Maragha says Muslims already spend a lot of time reflecting during Ramadan and it seems like a natural extension to focus on the environment.

The council represents dozens of Muslim organizations, which are being asked to focus more on recycling and looking at solar energy.

Representatives from the council say they've also been working the Field Museum on an environmental study.