In recent times, Pope Benedict XV1 called for a worldwide change of mentality regarding the environment. He said "If we do not act quickly and modify the way we treat the planet, humanity could risk extinction. All governments must commit to protecting nature and helping it fulfill its essential role for the survival of humanity. We need to rethink totally our approach toward nature. It is not just a playground or a space to be exploited. We need precise and sustainable solutions to help humanity live its covenant." WHAT IS GLOBAL WARMING? WHAT CAUSES GLOBAL WARMING? "Global warming is the current rise in the average temperature of Earth’s oceans and atmosphere and its projected continuum. The scientific consensus is that global warming is occurring and was initiated by human activities, especially those that increase concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, such as deforestation and burning of fossil fuels" Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (2/3) Greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide accumulate in the atmosphere. Use of fossil fuels is the main source of greenhouse gases, as well as driving cars or trucks and other vehicles. The rise in the temperature of earth’s resources and atmosphere and ongoing human activities are creating excess greenhouse gases that trap heat in the atmosphere and result in global warming. We cannot deny the seriousness of the issue when we see what has happened in the US in the past year and also in other parts of the world. The natural disasters experienced by many should be a wake-up call for all of us and find new and effective ways to stop the problem. We need a new consciousness to change our ways and avoid the mindless emissions of CO2 into the atmosphere. It affects all people around the globe, and especially the poorest and most vulnerable. WHAT CAN BE DONE TO EFFECTIVELY RESPOND TO GLOBAL WARMING?
All are called to responsible stewardship and all can contribute to the solutions to the problem. It will take courage to face the facts about global warming and do something about them. All must get involved with study, planning and action. Some religious communities have started programs to educate their members and the public about environmental issues. The Racine Dominicans have such a program called the Racine Dominican Eco-Justice Center. It is dedicated to environmental education, and care of the Earth in the context of community, contemplation, creativity and cultivation. www.eco-justice@racinedominicans.org. |