WCC calls Durban a “last opportunity” to act responsibly for climate justice
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Rev. Dr Olav Fykse Tveit, WCC general secretary speaking at a seminar on Creation and the Climate Crisis in Copenhagen, 2009
Considering climate change a “moral and spiritual crisis”, the World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary, Rev. Dr Olav Fykse Tveit, calls the COP17 United Nations conference on climate change a “last opportunity for the international community to be responsible in addressing climate change” and urges positive outcomes from the event.
In a statement issued ahead of COP17, which takes place from 28 November to 10 December in Durban, South Africa, Tveit makes strong recommendations on behalf of the churches, calling for visible outcomes and supporting the interests of vulnerable communities affected by climate change.
“Since the early 70s the WCC has been advocating for building sustainable communities. This has become even more relevant today when it has become imperative to build a low-carbon future. This is a must to improve the living conditions for all through sustainable energy means,” says Tveit.
“Churches and religious communities witness in their congregations how climate change is affecting lives and livelihoods of entire societies, as well as the earth created by God. Peoples’ rights are threatened, environments are destroyed, the whole creation is groaning,” he added.
In Durban, Tveit hopes for a stronger contribution by the churches and other activists motivated by their faith. He says, “This time in Durban, religious communities, especially from Africa, have come together in various ways to express that climate change is also a moral and spiritual crisis. We proclaim together: We have faith. Act now for climate justice.”
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WCC programme on climate change and eco-justice