Pope Francis amplifies climate action with renewed encyclical and global engagement

Pope Francis has made the climate crisis a central theme of his papacy, emphasizing urgent action to combat environmental degradation. His 2015 encyclical, "Laudato Si'," boldly declared that "the earth, our home, is beginning to look more and more like an immense pile of filth." This message resonated during his visit to the United States, where he urged immediate action alongside then-President Barack Obama.

The encyclical called for rich nations to assist poorer ones in addressing climate change and sparked the formation of new organizations, including the global Catholic climate movement. Rebecca Elliott, a representative of this movement, noted that it has mobilized around 20,000 people across 140 countries for initiatives like tree planting and climate policy marches.

In Latin America, where Pope Francis was born, the Catholic Church has actively supported environmental campaigns. Notably, bishops in Ecuador successfully advocated for a 2023 referendum to halt oil drilling in the Amazon Rainforest, aligning with indigenous leaders and youth activists.

As climate science has become increasingly urgent, Pope Francis has continued to amplify his message. In 2023, he issued another papal letter, expressing frustration that many still overlook the climate crisis. Fordham University theology professor Christiana Zenner observed that this latest letter included more scientific detail, akin to a professor addressing students who missed the lesson.

Research from Arizona State University indicates that while Pope Francis has not significantly shifted public opinion on climate change, he has enhanced his own image, particularly among politically liberal audiences. However, his messages have also highlighted that taking action on climate aligns with conservative Catholic values.

The impact of Pope Francis's climate advocacy is expected to endure within the Catholic Church, as it now positions itself as a leader in environmental stewardship. Over 8,000 families, schools, and organizations worldwide have pledged to act in response to his encyclical, setting the stage for future engagement on climate issues, especially as the world looks to the next papal leadership.