Pope Francis has emerged as a significant global advocate for climate action, intertwining environmental stewardship with social justice. Since the beginning of his papacy, he has emphasized the moral imperative to protect our planet, drawing inspiration from St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of ecology. In 2015, he published the encyclical “Laudato Si’: On Care for Our Common Home,” which highlighted the urgent need to address environmental degradation and global warming. This landmark document not only critiqued consumerism and irresponsible development but also called for a unified global response to climate change, urging world leaders to set clear targets to limit global warming12.
Building on this foundation, Pope Francis continues to advocate for climate action through various platforms and initiatives. His recent Apostolic Exhortation, “Laudate Deum,” underscores the escalating climate crisis and the disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations. He criticizes climate change denial and emphasizes the scientific consensus on human-caused global warming. The Pope calls for collaborative efforts, particularly from developed nations, to reduce carbon emissions and support less prosperous regions in adapting to climate impacts. His persistent efforts aim to mobilize the global Catholic community and beyond, fostering a sense of co-responsibility in addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our time23.
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