Faith focus
Climate change is usually seen as either an environmental or green issue - or as a scientific issue. Responding to environmental issues involves adapting our use of energy, recycling and caring for the environment.
However the underlying cause of climate change is more to do with our values and beliefs. For several generations, economic growth underpinned by consumer demand, has been the assumed value system, particularly in the Western world. In the UK many people see it as their 'right' to live as they choose, to purchase what they choose, when they choose (on credit when necessary), irrespective of the consequences, whether to the environment or to systems that exploit resources, whether human or natural. Changing this value system is not easy.
With some important exceptions, faith groups have been slow to respond to the crisis of climate change. However, spiritual beliefs can provide a vital motivation for people in making changes to their lifestyles. Faith groups need to show real leadership in this area. Climate change is not just about physical changes, it is also an ethical or moral issue. Richer countries are overwhelmingly the cause of the problems and the poorest people are those who are suffering the most from the impact of climate change. Again leadership is needed in this area from faith groups.
Not all faith groups are represented here. Please share information and links so that this section of the site can add more faith groups.