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Faith and science Rome 4 October 2021
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Almost 40 faith leaders signed the joint appeal, which was presented by Pope Francis.

Signatories included World Council of Churches acting general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Ioan Sauca, along with representatives from across the Christian denominations, Sunni and Shia Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Zoroastrianism and Jainism.

The appeal calls for the world to achieve net-zero carbon emissions as soon as possible, and to limit the global average temperature rise to 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels.

As leaders and scholars from various religious traditions, we unite in a spirit of humility, responsibility, mutual respect and open dialogue,” reads the appeal. This dialogue is not limited to merely the exchange of ideas, but is focused on the desire to walk in companionship, recognizing our call to live in harmony with one another and with nature.”

The appeal also presses wealthier nations and those with the greatest responsibility to take the lead, stepping up their climate action at home and financially supporting vulnerable countries to adapt to and address climate change.

Nature is a gift, but also a life-giving force without which we cannot exist,” reads the appeal. Together, we must address the threats facing our common home.”

The faith leaders and scientists also urge governments to raise their ambition and their international cooperation to transition to clean energy and to sustainable land use practices, environmentally friendly food systems and responsible financing.

The warnings from the scientific community are becoming increasingly stark and clear, as is the need for concrete steps to be taken,” reads the appeal. Scientists say that time is running out.”

Faith leaders themselves also committed to greater climate action. "Now is the time for urgent, radical and responsible action,” reads the text. Transforming the present situation requires the international community to act with greater ambition and fairness, in all aspects of its policies and strategies.”

Faith and Science: An Appeal for COP26

WCC presents message at major international “Faith and Science” talks ahead of COP26 - WCC news release 4 October 2021

Watch the video of the ceremony