The Holy See asks the UN to repair the ecological debt

The Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations, Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, highlighted the urgency of alleviating the “ecological debt” in developing countries.

The Vatican authority defended this position during a recent intervention in the debate of the Second Committee on Sustainable Development, according to Vatican News.

In his speech on behalf of the Holy See, Bishop Caccia showed that those who have contributed the least to climate change and environmental degradation, including the poor and indigenous communities, “are often those who suffer the most serious and devastating consequences.”

In this context, he stressed that the Holy See, which he referred to as a “convinced promoter of integral human development,” considers that “nations and sectors that have contributed disproportionately to environmental degradation and climate change have the responsibility to support those who are most affected by its consequences.”

For the archbishop, “the correction of ecological debt begins with developed countries,” and he clarified that this support can be assumed in “many ways, including adequate financing, debt reduction in times of crisis, transfer of appropriate technologies and strengthening of capacities.”

Likewise, he expressed that “concerted action is necessary to protect biodiversity”, in particular to guarantee “the survival of the countless communities whose livelihoods depend on them.”

“The rapid loss of species, the destruction of habitats and the pollution of air and water are not only ecological concerns; they have a profound impact on people’s lives,” he said.

The Permanent Observer to the UN reiterated the importance of promoting education for integral ecology, and stated that “lasting change cannot be achieved through policies alone.”

This, according to Bishop Caccia, “also requires a conversion of hearts and minds. The change in lifestyle should be encouraged through education that guides decisions, inspires solidarity and prepares young people to build a culture of sustainability.”

“Educational initiatives should not be limited to technical solutions; they should also include ethical training to cultivate collective responsibility in safeguarding creation. By promoting ecological education, we can cultivate a new way of living that respects both the dignity of the human person and the integrity of Creation,” he concluded.