Faith actors are involved in protecting the environment and climate.
(LWI) People who are of faith are called by God to live in harmony and not misuse, misuse, or exhaust creation, according to Rev. Anne Burghardt.
She spoke at an online event side event on the 28th of February UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-5).Voices of hope & faith – Sharing visions for living in harmony and nature
She continued, “But, this is not the reality we see in how we run our economies, develop, and societies around the world today.”
Burghardt, referring to the current conflict in Ukraine with the potential for use of nuclear weapons, and recalling the 1986 Chernobyl explosion that destroyed the Chernobyl nuclear power station, stressed the devastating effects of destroying the balance between power and ecology. Burghardt stated that the sinful pursuit of power over other creatures and the Earth can lead to the destruction of ecological harmony, life, and social harmony that lasts generations.
The trajectory of global warming at 2.4 degrees was achieved by countries’ current commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Burghardt said that this is far more than the 1.5 degrees required for global warming to be contained.
Burghardt stated, “As faith-based actors, our voices are raised, increase awareness and build capacity to take action on climate, nature and environment protection.” Protecting the lives and livelihoods for people and communities that are affected by climate change is a priority.
The LWF has roots in almost every bioregion around the globe and engages with local communities to inform and shape its global advocacy. Burghardt explained that the Lutheran tradition’s spiritual and theological gifts help us cultivate an ecological sense and a vocation to care about all creation.
She stated that the LWF had been a prophetic voice in raising awareness about the ecological crises among its constituencies since 1970s. She also reiterated the vital role of young people in addressing the triple planet crisis – climate change and biodiversity loss and pollution – which affects all of us.
Fernanda Ziga was one of the panelists. Fernanda Ziga is the National Coordinator of Youth Ministry of the Lutheran Church in Chile (ILCH). She has also attended UN Climate Conferences COP25 & COP26 as a LWF delegate. She has been involved in climate justice projects related to education and mitigation within her church.
Ziga pointed out the obvious effects of climate change in Latin America and Caribbean: Wildfires, droughts and floods have increased the frequency of extreme weather.
Young people voiced their hope by initiating projects to raise awareness, urban gardening, and reforestation. Ziga stated that we must also speak up for those who are unable to do so. We must all pledge to believe that we can make a difference, both now and in the future.
By LWF/A. Weyermller
LWF Climate Justice
The LWF delegation to UNEA-5 comprises youth, World Service representatives and members of the LWFs Action for Justice units. The official side event to UNEA-5 was the 28 February discussion, which was organized by the LWF. It was also hosted by the World Council of Churches and ACT Alliance.