The world is mourning the passing of Pope Francis, and we wanted to take a moment to reflect on the powerful ecological legacy he leaves behind. More than a spiritual leader, he was a global voice for environmental justice—someone who helped shift how faith communities and society as a whole understand our relationship with the planet. His papacy was marked by compassion and urgency, calling us to care more deeply for creation and for those most affected by environmental harm.
Laudato Si’
In 2015, Pope Francis introduced Laudato Si’, the first encyclical to focus entirely on environmental care and responsibility. At the heart of Laudato Si’ lies the concept of integral ecology—the idea that environmental, social, and economic problems are interconnected and must be addressed together. Francis urged us to move beyond short-term consumerism, embracing instead a long-term vision of stewardship rooted in love and responsibility for our common home.
Laudato Si’ now certifies environmental leaders in over 140 countries and supports grassroots sustainability projects. The Action Platform of Laudato Si’ has guided Catholic communities worldwide in turning ecological commitment into concrete action, touching the lives of around 20 million people. Annual events like Laudato Si’ Week and the Season of Creation now engage millions in prayer and action for the environment, making care for creation a living, breathing part of Catholic identity.
Policy Influence
Laudato Si’ influenced conversations at the Paris Climate Conference in 2015, where world leaders echoed its call for unity and moral responsibility. Under Pope Francis’ leadership, the Vatican became a signatory to the agreement and committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050—setting a bold example for institutions and nations alike. He also convened conversations with oil executives, politicians, and interfaith leaders, consistently pushing for urgent, coordinated responses to the environmental crisis.
Catalyzing Cultural and Educational Change
Pope Francis recognized that true transformation begins not only in policies or institutions, but in hearts and minds. Through Laudato Si’, he sparked a cultural shift that extended far beyond Church walls—one that continues to shape how communities, schools, and faith groups engage with environmental issues today. His message ignited a global movement that led to the development of new university programs, research initiatives, and educational curricula focused on integral ecology and sustainability.
Across the globe, local Laudato Si’ communities and gardens have taken root, offering hands-on ways for people to connect with and care for the environment in daily life. These initiatives support broader goals like sustainability and social equity, in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Pope Francis also strengthened interfaith collaboration, emphasizing that care for the Earth is a shared responsibility. Since 2015, faith-led environmental efforts have expanded significantly, with Vatican-hosted events fostering joint climate statements and deeper cooperation among religious leaders and communities.
Inspiring Activism
Laudato Si’ inspired the growth of a worldwide Laudato Si’ Movement, bringing together over 900 Catholic organizations united in their mission to promote ecological justice. The movement has trained more than 10,000 “Laudato Si’ animators,” local leaders who engage their communities in ecological action and climate advocacy.
This call to action has resonated far beyond the Catholic Church. A recent multidisciplinary study by the University of Manchester, which interviewed over 300 religious climate activists from various Christian backgrounds in the UK, found that 61% cited Pope Francis as a key influence in their decision to engage in environmental activism.
A Voice for the Marginalized
Central to Pope Francis’ environmental advocacy was his unwavering commitment to the poor and marginalized. He consistently reminded the world that climate change’s harshest impacts fall on those least responsible: the poor, Indigenous peoples, and vulnerable communities. Through documents like Querida Amazonia, he elevated Indigenous voices and championed the defenders of threatened lands, linking ecological justice with human dignity and poverty alleviation.
A Living Legacy
Pope Francis has woven care for creation into the very fabric of Catholic teaching and practice, ensuring that ecological responsibility is now a core element of the Church’s mission. His leadership transformed the Vatican and the global Catholic Church into a prominent voice for planetary sustainability, influencing policy, activism, and public awareness far beyond religious circles.
”Protecting the Earth is not just about survival; it’s about love, justice, and human dignity.
Pope Francis
As we remember Pope Francis, let us honor his legacy by continuing the work he so passionately began. May his courage, humility, and hope inspire us all to care for our common home and for one another-today and for generations to come.
