Posted on: October 14, 2025 – by: Vatican News | 📝 Original text written in Spanish, with English translation.
The Holy See considers it essential to heal the “ecological debt” incurred with developing countries. This was affirmed by the Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations, Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, in his address to the Second Committee on Sustainable Development. As a preface, the Prelate cited the words of Pope Francis on the occasion of the Tenth World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation and observed: “We seem unable to recognize that the destruction of nature does not affect everyone equally.” Caccia continued, “It is evident 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 severe and devastating consequences.”
The Responsibility to Help
The Holy See—described by Archbishop Caccia as a “steadfast promoter of integral human development,” especially in these times marked by countless conflicts and challenges, and coinciding with the tenth anniversary of Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’, “a prophetic text that highlights the interconnectedness of people and the planet”—believes that “nations and sectors that have contributed disproportionately to environmental degradation and climate change have a responsibility to support those most affected by its consequences.”
“Correcting the ecological debt begins with developed countries,” the Archbishop stated, adding that such support can take “various forms, including adequate financing, debt relief in times of crisis, the sharing of appropriate technologies, and capacity-building.”
Protection of Biodiversity
According to the Prelate, “concerted action is also needed to protect biodiversity.” Caccia emphasized, “Protecting our forests, oceans, and ecosystems is essential—not only as a recognition of their intrinsic value but also for the survival of the countless communities whose livelihoods depend on them. The rapid loss of species, habitat destruction, and air and water pollution are not merely ecological concerns; they have a profound impact on people’s lives.”
Education in Integral Ecology
For the Holy See, the Permanent Observer concluded, promoting education in integral ecology is also essential. “Lasting change cannot be achieved through policies alone,” the Archbishop affirmed. “It also requires a conversion of hearts and minds. A change in lifestyle must be promoted 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 must also include ethical formation to cultivate collective responsibility for the protection of creation. By promoting ecological education, we can nurture a new way of life that respects both the dignity of the human person and the integrity of creation.”
