Pope Francis, Faith Leaders appeal - Climate Change Conference

Pope Francis and global religious leaders appealed on Monday for countries to “achieve net zero carbon emissions as soon as possible.”

They made the appeal in a joint message signed in the Vatican’s Hall of Benediction, which was decorated with plants to mark the occasion.

“The world is called to achieve net zero carbon emissions as soon as possible, with wealthier countries taking the lead in reducing their own emissions and in financing emission reductions from poorer nations,” they said in the 2,000-word appeal signed by almost 40 faith leaders.

Pope Francis presented the signed text to Alok Sharma, president of the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 26), and Italy’s foreign minister Luigi Di Maio.