21 January 2015
Pope Francis, Holy See Advocate Action on Climate Change
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The Holy See has published online the message of Pope Francis to the high-level segment of the Lima Climate Change Conference.

In the statement, dated 27 November 2014, the Pope stresses the critical importance of the December 2014 negotiations and their impact on humanity, especially the poor and future generations.

Referring to the work of the parties to the UNFCCC, he calls for this "ethical and moral responsibility" to be approached with an "open and generous spirit".

vatican-flag20 January 2015: The Holy See has published online the message of Pope Francis to the high-level segment of the Lima Climate Change Conference. In the statement, dated 27 November 2014, the Pope stresses the critical importance of the December 2014 negotiations and their impact on humanity, especially the poor and future generations. Referring to the work of the parties to the UNFCCC, he calls for this “ethical and moral responsibility” to be approached with an “open and generous spirit.”

The Pope’s statement further remarks on the dramatic effects of environmental changes being felt in countries around the world, underscoring the “gravity of neglect and inaction” and the “clear, definitive and urgent ethical imperative to act.” The Pope calls on parties to act collectively and responsibly, in a way that can overcome special interests, political and economic pressures, and mistrust.

These words were echoed by an intervention by the Holy See during the negotiations. The statement, which was delivered by Archbishop James Patrick Green on 10 December 2014, draws connections between fighting climate change, upholding fundamental human rights and alleviating poverty. It also highlights human interdependence, stressing that there is no room for indifference, and that parties have a collective responsibility to act for the common good.

At various times during his papacy, Pope Francis has publicly advocated for the care and stewardship of Earth overall, as well as action against climate change more specifically, as referenced in the Holy See’s statement. In particular, the Holy See highlights its advocacy and work for environmental education and against a ‘throwaway culture.’ Furthermore, the Pope stated during a visit to the Philippines in January 2015 that humans are the dominant cause of climate change. He is drafting an encyclical on the environment and climate change expected to be released in June or July 2015.

Pope Francis is expected to hold a five-day summit on climate and sustainability in 2015. In addition, during the Lima Climate Change Conference, a group of bishops called for the end of the fossil-fuel era. [Pope Francis’s Message] [Intervention by the Holy See] [Vatican Radio Press Release] [Catholic Bishops’ Statement]


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