Pope’s encyclical is a powerful call for climate action

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Environment America

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today Pope Francis formally issued his much-anticipated encyclical, which casts action on climate as a moral obligation. The document addressed to “every living person on this planet” calls for steep reductions in global warming pollution. “The emission of carbon dioxide and other highly polluting gases can be drastically reduced,” Pope Francis writes. “Technology based on the use of highly polluting fossil fuels — especially coal, but also oil and, to a lesser degree, gas — needs to be progressively replaced without delay.” Environment America’s Global Warming Solutions program director Anna Aurilio issued the following statement in response:
 
“Pope Francis has made full use of his moral authority by taking an incredibly powerful and visible stand on global warming. We hope this call for bold action to stem the climate crisis will help rally public opinion in a way that politicians can no longer ignore. Judging by how madly the fossil fuel industry and their apologists have been scrambling to belittle this pope already, they must fear today’s action will ultimately mean they can no longer pollute our planet without consequence. Environment America stands with people of faith who are committed to protecting the environment for future generations.”