CLIMATE CHANGE AND CLIMATE JUSTICE
“Climate change is a global problem with grave implications: environmental, social, economic, political and for the distribution of goods. It represents one of the principal challenges facing humanity in our day… Many of those who possess more resources and economic or political power seem mostly to be concerned with masking the problems or concealing …the negative impacts of climate change. ..There is an urgent need to develop policies so that, in the next few years, the emission of carbon dioxide and other highly polluting gases can be drastically reduced…” Pope Francis Laudato Si 25 & 26
In 2015 there has been a particular focus on the issue of Climate Change and Climate Justice both within the Church and in the wider world. Climate change and its effects has become a matter of serious concern. ccientists tell us that unless carbon emissions are reduced the world will suffer irreversible and life changing damage.
The publication of Pope Francis’ Encyclical, Laudato Si marks a radical change of emphasis in Catholic Social Teaching and spirituality that links care for creation with respect for human dignity in an “integral ecology.” On the world stage the UN Climate Summit taking place in Paris from November 30th to December 11th has, after years of ineffectual UN Climate Summits, been described as a “make or break” event and as the international community’s “last-chance saloon” to take concerted action on climate change.
This section of the SMA Website will over the coming months will publish information and resources aimed at creating greater awareness of climate change and climate justice. It will also point to things that we as individuals can do through prayer, through action to influence our leaders and things we can do in our own lives to reduce the effects of climate change by reducing our own carbon footprint.
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