December 15, 2009. Benedict XVI says in order to guarantee world peace one must do its part in protecting the environment. That’s his key message for World Day for Peace, which takes place January 1. The pope theme for 2010 is “If you want to cultivate peace, protect creation.”
In his message which was released out at a press conference at the Vatican, the pope says everyone, including developing countries, are responsible for protecting nature.
Card. Renato Martino
President Emeritus, Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace
“The responsibility until now has lied with the greatest developed countries those producing the highest levels of Carbon Dioxide, but also developing counties don’t always pay as much attention as they should be to their own production of CO2.”
Benedict XVI says that environmental degradation is caused by the lack of political projects. That’s why he’s calling on the international community to better manage resources and invest in projects to harness solar energy and water.
But he warns that the solution lies with each individual citizen. He’s also calling on people to change their lifestyles, an advocates for lifestyles based on moderation and solidarity.
Tomasso di Riuzza
Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace
"Above all, developing this idea of creation of profound of creation. Above all, having this vision a life commitment . We are all called to live a simple life and it may seem small, but in reality it’s a serious commitment to civil society to respect to the environment while contributing to peace.”
It is not the first time a Pope warns of the close relationship between peace and environmental protection.
20 years ago, John Paul II, called for a greater sense of solidarity in order to solve the ecological crisis.
MC/ PVB
FF / DC /GP
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