The Emission Reduction Targets (Scotland) Bill is currently going through the Holyrood  Parliament - legislation necessitated by the fact previous set targets were not going to be met. It can be confusing to discern where the country finds itself in the drive for net zero and this guest blog from Andrew Tomlinson of Christian Aid - Justice and Peace Scotland's coalition partners in Stop Climate Chaos - offers a valuable overview.

The Saint of Assisi shows us "how inseparable the bond is between concern for nature, justice for the poor, commitment to society, and interior peace." ICN

PAX and ICAN’s new report "Moving away from mass destruction" shows that more and more financial institutions around the world are rejecting nuclear weapons, and citing the #nuclearban treaty as a reason to stop banking on the bomb.  

"I appeal to my brothers, the authorities of the Russian Federation, that the Black Sea Initiative may be restored and grain may be transported safely.  "The cry of millions of brothers and sisters who suffer hunger rises to Heaven."  ICN.

Rishi Sunak has announced the approval of about 100 new North Sea oil and gas licences, prompting condemnation from environmental groups, who said it would “send a wrecking ball” through the UK’s climate commitments. The Guardian.

 “use all diplomatic means, even those that may not have been used so far, to bring an end to this terrible tragedy,” since “war in itself is an error and a horror.”  Vatican News.

The UK Court of Appeal has ruled that Rwanda is not a safe third country to send those seeking safety in the UK to, so what happens now? this Right To Remain blog answers a few questions.  

Environmental activists have urged lenders around the world not to help fund the project and some banks have vowed not to participate in its financing.  Aljazeera.

Archbishop Nolan and the Sally Foster-Fulton, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland supported the recent Faith Vigil at the South Gate of Faslane Naval Base to pray for an end to nuclear weapons.  Watch the service here.

We were very pleased to host Fr Stan Chu Ilo in Eyre Hall in the Glasgow Archdiocesan Offices on Friday 23rd June 2023 for his talk - Ecological Conversion As A Missionary Conversion; A spirituality of Stewardship for Cosmic Flourishing.  Watch the recording here.

Message of Pope Francis for Creation Day 2023.

Press Release from Stop Climate Chaos Scotland in response to the news that the Scottish Government have missed their greenhouse gas emission targets, leaving us further away from our crucial goals on the environment.  SCCS.

Justice and Peace Scotland are hosting a 'Weekend of Action' on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 23, 24 and 25 June.  Find out more here.  ICN

Pope Francis pens a message for the annual World Day of the Poor, stressing that “whenever we encounter a poor person, we cannot look away, for that would prevent us from encountering the face of the Lord Jesus.”  Vatican News

The circular economy offers cheaper alternatives to buying new, local employment opportunities and community support from local charities and social enterprises that practise circularity through reuse, repair and recycling.  The Herald.

“Moreover, as indicated by many in the scientific world, changing this model is 'urgent' and can no longer be postponed.” Vatican News

Sign up for the 2023 Season of Creation Resources here.

Pope Francis' Prayer Intention for June:  "For the abolition of torture - We pray that the international community may commit in a concrete way to ensuring the abolition of torture and guarantee support to victims and their families."

"favouring sustainable investment is also a testimony of faith, which is based on respect for creation, created and entrusted to us by God."  ICN Image by Elisa on Pixabay.

In a new letter, which is available publicly on the COP26 Declaration website, we have urged our investment managers - and the wider investment management industry - to take a firm stance against fossil fuel expansion.  ICN

Advertising watchdog to begin stricter enforcement around the use of terms such as “carbon neutral”, “net zero” and “nature positive” as part of a greenwashing crackdown. The Guardian.

The Bishops' Conference of Scotland have announced the appointment of Anne Marie Clements as the new Catholic Social Teaching Engagement Officer for the National Justice and Peace Commission.

The implementation of the Scottish government's flagship legislation on domestic abuse is not good enough, according to a new report.  140 to 150 calls to Police Scotland a night about domestic abuse.  BBC News.

This year is shaping up to be one of top four warmest years on record – and has a modest chance of being the warmest on record.  Carbon Brief

We oppose the TUC’s call for an increase in arms spending. The British arms industry supplies some of the most aggressive and authoritarian regimes in the world and the weapons it exports have helped to destabilize whole regions of the world and contributed to the deaths of hundreds of thousands of people.

You can take action against the #IllegalImmigration Bill today by adding your name to this letter from the UK Youth Climate Coalition.

Sign this SCIAF letter asking Humza Yousaf to put Scotland at the forefront of calls to build a just and green world, and free people from the injustices that shape their lives.

Pope Francis stresses once again ‘War is Madness’  “Using weapons to resolve conflicts is a sign of weakness and fragility. Negotiation, proceeding in mediation, and conciliation require courage. #Peace“.  April 2023 Pope Video.

The Care of Creation Office in conjunction with Trinity College, the Church of Scotland and Justice & Peace Scotland are proud to be bringing this public lecture on creation and climate change to Eyre Hall at the Glasgow Archdiocesan Offices on Friday 23rd June 2023 at 6pm as part of the Duff Lectures Series.  To find out more and to book one of the limited places, click the link below.

Saturday, April 22nd is #EarthDay and so we wanted to take this opportunity to share some information on how climate change, sustainability and environmental issues are interconnected with the eradication of modern slavery and human trafficking, and what we as consumers can do about it.  Hope For Justice.

Numerous heat records have been broken across Southeast Asia, China and other parts of the continent in recent days as the region remains in the grip of a dangerously scorching heat wave, with Thailand in particular experiencing unusually extreme conditions. Weather historian Maximiliano Herrera is describing it as the “worst April heat wave in Asian history.” The Washington Post.  

Consider the very high numbers of people in India who work outdoors in agriculture and construction etc.  This country is at the bullseye of climate change and exposure impacts on outdoor workers.  The Times of India.   

Eco-Congregation Scotland are holding their annual gathering this coming Saturday 22nd April and you can join in online or in person as the event will take the format of a blended hybrid experience.  With great speakers lined up from both the climate movement and Christians Against Poverty Scotland it promises to be a great event.

This short report on COP27 was written by Adrian Shaw of Eco-Congregations Scotland for the Scottish Faith Leaders Forum.  

From May 21-28 we will celebrate the 8th anniversary of the launch of the encyclical Laudato Si' as a global movement. "Hope for the Earth. Hope for humanity", is the theme that will guide us this year.  Register here for updates.

Last year, wildfires destroyed nearly two million acres of land throughout Europe—more than double the annual average over the past 16 years, according to the European Commission. In Spain alone, 493 blazes wiped out more than 750,000 acres. Common Dreams.  

“summary for policymakers”, to provide scientific underpinning for global climate action. It is written by scientists but haggled over by representatives of the UN’s nearly 200 governments, so some argue it is subject to watering down by regimes that do not like its messages.  The Guardian.

The climate time-bomb is ticking but the latest IPCC report shows that we have the knowledge & resources to tackle the climate crisis. We need to #ActNow to ensure a livable planet in the future.  Read the IPCC Report here 

I listened to too many people say: "It's up to the next generation to solve this problem." Which seems both ignoble and impractical. For all that undeniable intelligence and idealism, even the most engaged young people lack the structural power to make change by themselves. Common Dreams.

“Before Pope Francis, it was by no means clear that the Church was really prepared to take climate science seriously. It is now clear that you cannot be a Catholic and you cannot be a Christian and at the same time deny that climate change is an issue.”  Time.

Join this co-hosted webinar from Eco-Congregation Scotland and Local Energy Scotland, which manages CARES for the Scottish Government.  How to decarbonise your community building,Tuesday 21 March 2023,11.00am – 12.00noon
Please register on Eventbrite

Nations around the world have agreed to a new global treaty for governing the sustainable use and conservation of the so-called “high seas”.  The treaty must be ratified by 60 member states before it can enter into force.  Carbon Brief.

This International Women’s Day, we’re sharing a story of what happens for women when trade is done well - and the impact ethical business can have on a whole community. Sadhna, a garments manufacturer in Rajasthan, is just one example of the thousands of inspirational small businesses empowering women and changing lives across the world. Transform Trade.

“Let Justice and Peace Flow” is the theme chosen for Season of Creation 2023, the ecumenical celebration we hold each year from September 1, World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, to October 4th, the feast of St. Francis of Assisi.

Justice & Peace Scotland joined Glasgow Catholic Worker and Pax Christi Scotland at the Faslane Ash Wednesday service of repentence for nuclear weapons kept here in Scotland and all across the world.  A short excerpt from the service here

On Pancake Tuesday 2023, Justice & Peace Scotland held a networking event to get together with our friends and colleagues.  Watch the short video here 

Justice & Peace Scotland are recruiting for a new full time position - Catholic Social Teaching Engagement Officer.  Click the link for further details.  

In this short video, Fr Tony O'Riordan answers 5 questions on how the people of Aleppo, Syria are coping 1 week after the devastating earthquake there.   

A guide to caring for our living planet.  The booklet, promoted by the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) and the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, was launched in a virtual event on Tuesday, February 14. The booklet distils the science on urgent environmental issues and explains how individuals and communities can take action to build a more sustainable and socially just future.

Peace witnesses will be held in Edinburgh & Glasgow on Friday 24th February 2023 to mark the 1st anniversary of the Invasion of Ukraine.  More details here.

Join us this Ash Wednesday, 22nd February, at Faslane as we join Glasgow Catholic Worker to witness against weapons of mass destruction.  All Welcome - More details here 

“Pollution from wood-burning is a growing source of fine particulate matter pollution in some areas, which is a serious threat to people’s health.” The Guardian.

Paul Morgan-Bentley, an undercover journalist  working with The Times exposes the shameful practice of forced entry to homes of vulnerable people to force-fit pre-payment meters. Watch his video report here.

The Scottish Government is seeking views on its draft Energy Strategy and Just Transition Plan and invites communities, workers, citizens and businesses to engage in the process of designing Scotland’s energy transition. The consultation runs until Tuesday 4 April.

“Our territory, our forest, is everything that we have: where we live, feed, plant traditional foods, [obtain] medicines [and] crops, where we pray, the air we breathe.” Carbon Brief.

Supporting your local sharing and repairing projects is an amazing way to change the way you consume, make less waste, and support your local community.  Find out more here

The Laudato Si’ Movement and the Care of Creation Office have organised an online Scottish screening of the film The Letter: A Message For Our Earth for Thursday 2nd February at 7.00pm.

“We can imagine with what suffering he (God) must witness wars and acts of violence perpetrated by those who call themselves Christians.”  Vatican News.

A Guided Tour of the Unacceptable is a geographical and historical tour of the UK’s nuclear weapons on the Clyde and resistance to them.  Monday 23rd January 2023 at 7.30PM The Hippodrome Bo'ness.

Bishops, including Archbishop Nolan, from across Europe and North America who make up the Holy Land Coordination Group  have released this statement following their recent visit to Jordan to support the Christian population there. image Mazur/cbcew.org.uk.

The loss of pollinators, specifically, is already causing nearly 430,000 deaths every year by reducing the supply of healthy food, according to a study published in 2022.  Carbon Brief.

Lützerath, in western Germany, is on the verge - literally - of being swallowed up by the massive coal mine on its doorstep.  Around 200 climate change activists, are now all that stand in the way of the diggers expanding the Garzweiler opencast mine.  BBC.

Catholics may have heard of the Pope's encyclical 'Laudato Si' but what does it mean in practical terms for individuals, parishes & Dioceses.  Join this online event on Tuesday 17th Jan at 7.30pm.

Seas dominate global weather patterns and the climate crisis is causing profound and damaging changes.  The Guardian.

Archbishop Nolan, President of Justice & Peace Scotland, delivers his yearly message to be read at all services in Scotland across the weekend of 7th/8th January 2023, the Feast of the Epiphany.  

The suggested prayers, below, were edited from contributions of several of our National Commissioners. You are encouraged to use some of them at the Sacred Liturgy in your worshipping community.

Archbishop Nolan releases this message to be read at all Catholic Churches on 7th & 8th January 2023.

Pope Francis releases his message for the World Day of Peace to be celebrated on 1 January 2023, and recalls that all crises are interconnected and that we must not forget any of them, but work for the good of humanity. “No one can be saved alone.

The government says the needs of UK steelmaking override the environmental impact. The industry thinks differently.  The Obsever.

"Nature is humanity's best friend.

Without nature, we have nothing.

Without nature, we are nothing.

Nature is our life-support system"

“Having previously made more progress on decarbonising than the UK, this report shows that Scotland is now falling behind on a number of key areas...SCCS.

More than 650 scientists are urging world leaders to stop burning trees to make energy because it destroys valuable habitats for wildlife.  Letter says bioenergy is wrongly deemed ‘carbon neutral’ and contributes to wildlife loss.  The Guardian. 

Deforestation in Brazil's Amazon rainforest fell in the 12 months through July, according to government data released on Wednesday, retreating from a 15-year high under outgoing President Jair Bolsonaro. Reuters.

In his message for the 6th World Day of the Poor, Pope Francis invites Christians to greater solidarity and responsibility for the poor in society, stressing the importance of putting our faith into practice through personal involvement that cannot be delegated to others.

'In our report, we look at four reasons why Churches should be investing in climate solutions. The first is caring for creation...our second reason is loving our neighbour...our third reason is acting with hope...and (fourth), investments as a prophetic action'.  Operation Noah.

COP27 finally ends with historic agreement on Loss and Damage finance but lack of progress on agreeing emission reductions leaves critical temperature threshold dangerously out of reach.  Stop Climate Chaos Scotland.

Fr Alexander Smerechynskyy, national director of Catholic charity Stella Maris Ukraine, and port chaplain to Odessa, explains how the war with Russia has affected seafarers.

This short 2 minute video from Care4Calais has gone viral on social media.   It explains very well why there is no reason to fear refugees crossing on small boats and how better the asylum system could work if safe legal routes were open to them. 

Justice & Peace Scotland are one of 112 signatories on this letter to the First Minister urging the change required to redesign our economy in service of people and planet.

Join this Operation Noah webinar on Tuesday 22nd November at 7pm to find out how and why Churches and faith institutions in the UK should increase investment in climate solutions.

Climate campaign groups combined forces to march through the city centre on the Global Day of Action during the UN Climate Conference COP27 which is being held in Egypt.  The Edinburgh Reporter.

Saturday, Nov 12 will see mass mobilisations across the country and put thousands of people on the streets to demand Climate Justice in solidarity with the Global Day of Action called by Egyptian groups at COP27. 

The Commission of the Bishops' Conferences of the European Union (COMECE) have released a statement on the current energy crisis, calling on the EU to "ensure a fair access to affordable energy for all, especially the most vulnerable, while not losing sight of the long-term objectives of a just and sustainable energy transition".

As Scotland continues to show leadership on loss and damage: all rich nations must urgently address this grave injustice at COP27.  Stop Climate Chaos Scotland Statement.

Bishop John Arnold, from the Diocese of Salford and Chair of CAFOD's trustees, said: "The environment cannot be isolated from our relationship with God. We are blessed with stewardship over the earth, but with this comes the responsibility to protect our planet and preserve it for future generations.  ICN

“The truth is, and this is indisputable, that wind power and solar power are cheaper energy than fossil fuel energy today.  John Kerry,  The Independent.

Join this CAFOD campaign by sending this message to Rishi Sunak urging the government to work at this year's climate talks to stop the COP-out at COP27. #ClimateEmergency

Watch the Peace Witness Service at the gates of Faslane held on Saturday 29th October, where we were joined by Archibishop Nolan and the Dr Greenshields, Moderator of the Church of Scotland.  #NuclearBan

As Disarmament Week came to a close on Saturday, 29 October Justice & Peace Scotland gathered with our Bishop President, Archbishop Nolan of Glasgow, Dr Greenshields, Moderator of the Church of Scotland and some dedicated anti nuclear campaigners to hold a Peace Witness at the gates of Faslane Nuclear Base on the Clyde. ICN  Image Janet Fenton.

Justice & Peace supporters will be at the North Gate at Faslane Nuclear Base in Scotland on Saturday, 29th October, at 1pm to pray for peace and an end to nuclear weapons.  ICN.

Nov 12 will see mass mobilisations across the country and put thousands of people on the streets to demand climate justice in solidarity with the Global Day of Action called by Egyptian groups at COP27.

The Amazon has seen the steepest decline in average wildlife population size, with a 94% drop in 48 years.  Deforestation rates there are accelerating, stripping this unique ecosystem not just of trees but of the wildlife that depends on them and of the Amazon’s ability to act as one of our greatest allies in the fight against climate change.”  The Guardian.

In his remarks, Archbishop Caccia recalled that the Cuban missile crisis was averted only through banning nuclear weapons, disarmament, dialogue, and the building of mutual trust.  ICN

From 5.30pm on Tuesday 4th October, The Feast of St Francis, The Letter - A Message From Our Earth will be available to watch here.

A House of Lords committee urges No 10 to use the lessons of pandemic to enable people to make decisions about travel, food, and energy use.  The Independent.

The First Minister's speech at the Scottish Government's hybrid conference ‘Addressing Loss and Damage: Practical Action‘.

The inaugural #Romero Lecture & Thanksgiving Mass on the anniversary of the cannonisation of St Oscar Romero takes place this Friday 14th October at 6pm at Sacred Heart Church, Lauriston, Edinburgh.  A livestream link is also available on registration.

The Justice & Peace Europe International Workshop took place from 7-9 October in Assisi and Rondine.  More than sixty participants from 21 countries were present. Here is the final declaration: 

During a speech last Friday, President Putin said the US had created a "precedent" by using nuclear weapons against Japan at the end of World War Two.  BBC 

OTD, 70 years ago the UK carried out its first nuclear tests in Australia. This kicked off 12 atmospheric tests and radiological and toxic experiments. Decades after, survivors are still suffering the consequences and also fighting for justice.  ICAN.

In 2015, Pope Francis wrote Laudato Si’ (The Letter); an encyclical letter about the environmental crisis to every single person in the world. A few years later, four voices that have gone unheard in global conversations have been invited to an unprecedented dialogue with the Pope. Trailer - film release 4th Oct.

“One of the biggest issues…that is missing and lacking is that loss and damage is basically only [looked at] from a monetary point of view, but there are losses and damages which cannot be quantified in monetary terms, in terms of loss of ecosystems, loss of cultural heritage, loss of life.  Carbon Brief.

On Wed 21 September 2022, and with the intensifying symptoms of climate breakdown making the case for ecological conversion ever more powerfully, Catholics gathered in Mannofield again for the second diocesan Prayer for Creation.  ICN

At a time in which nuclear rhetoric and the threat of nuclear war is on the rise, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Parolin has stressed the Holy See's firm stance against nuclear tests and expressed its support for the UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.  ICN

1982: Since I have been asked to do so, and not because I have any exclusive wisdom, experience or success in this field, I would like to share a few thoughts on the work of trying to mobilise public opinion for disarmament.  Peace News.

The G20 alone accounts for 75% of global emissions, many times more than those of the club of climate-vulnerable countries, which includes Pakistan, who emit less than 1% of greenhouse gases but end up paying over the odds in human, social and economic costs for the carbon profligacy of others.  The Guardian. 

Entries are now open for the Columbans Schools competition.  If you are aged between 13-18 why not take a look here for a chance to win.

Guterres has previously accused governments of having an “addiction” to fossil fuels and has called new investments in oil, coal and gas “moral and economic madness”.  “Our planet is burning,” Guterres said, calling on world leaders to to end their “suicidal war against nature”.  The Guardian.

“we are still way off track”, adding that it remains shameful that resilience-building to climate shocks was still so neglected.  “It is a scandal that developed countries have failed to take adaptation seriously, and shrugged off their commitments to help the developing world” said Mr. Guterres. 

Bee-killing neonicotinoids have been banned across Europe since 2013, but the UK government has approved these deadly chemicals for emergency use - posing a lethal threat to bee populations.  Greenpeace petition.

Already aware of the immorality of nuclear weapons, Bruce joined Christian CND in 1960. In 1975, he carried out an exorcism of a Polaris nuclear submarine at the base in Faslane, in Scotland, with the words ‘From the willingness to murder, Good Lord, deliver us.’

“The Earth may have left a ‘safe’ climate state beyond 1C global warming,”“This sets Earth on course to cross multiple dangerous tipping points that will be disastrous for people across the world. To maintain liveable conditions on Earth and enable stable societies, we must do everything possible to prevent crossing tipping points.”  The Guardian.

As COP27 approaches, in the context of mounting climate impacts, we are reminded of the absolute priority of the success of global forums to find solutions borne of compassion and solidarity, which are for the poor and in pursuit of the common good.  The Tablet.

“The hits that this facility has received and that I could personally see and assess together with my experts is simply unacceptable. We are playing with fire and something very, very catastrophic could take place,”  IAEA chief Rafael Mariano Grossi

"We have launched a petition calling on the new Prime Minister to take bold action and pay up for damages that countries like ours have caused".  SCIAF

Dear brothers and sisters!  “Listen to the voice of creation” is the theme and invitation of this year’s Season of Creation. The ecumenical phase begins on 1 September with the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, and concludes on 4 October with the feast of Saint Francis. It is a special time for all Christians to pray and work together to care for our common home.  Vatican.

Pope Francis calls for a "covenant" between people and the environment God gave us, in his Message for the World Day of Prayer for Creation to be observed by the Church on September 1st.  Vatican News.

Just adhead of the Season of Creation, Kenneth Sadler, Aberdeen diocesan representative for Justice & Peace Scotland reflects on 'Resisting Ecological Conversion'.  ICN

Rafael Grossi, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said the team was expected to arrive at the plant later this week.  "We must protect the safety and security of Ukraine's and Europe's biggest nuclear facility," BBC

All of Europe's rivers have dried up to some extent.  Apart from the obvious impact on boats..Hydroelectric power has dropped by a significant 20%.  Rapidly-sinking river levels across Europe have exposed relics of the past - including so-called "hunger stones" warning of potential famine.  Image by Peter H from Pixabay

Resources for Sunday Masses during the Season of Creation 2022, produced by Laudato Si’ Animators and Eco Groups - Scotland, it offers a Penitential Rite and Prayers of the Faithful for each Sunday based on the Message of Pope Francis for the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation.

On the memorial of St John Vianney, patron saint of parish priests, Fr Eugenio Montesi SX talks of his life and vocation in this Missio Scotland podcast recalling how the motto of the Xaverians - to make the world a single family - inspired him to a life of service.

"You have a catalogue of things that should never be happening in any nuclear facility," BBC News
 

"We’re not reacting quickly enough to avoid the damage or to even begin to repair the damage that we’ve done”.  The Tablet.

Greenpeace is taking legal action to stop Shell's Jackdaw gas field.  The government approved Jackdaw without checking the full impact it would have on the climate.  Please sign the petition.

All talks from NJPN Conference 2022, 'Hope is a verb with its sleeves rolled up' can be seen on Youtube here  

7 million people are facing starvation. Half of Somalia’s children under age 5 are malnourished. At least one child is now dying every day.  There just isn’t enough food.  itvnews

Lifestyle changes are no substitute for collective action. But personal carbon-cutting still matters – it’s a powerful way to signal the climate emergency to those around us, move the needle on policy and set bigger cultural changes in motion.  New Internationalist.

"Each passing moment is an opportunity for everyone, especially world leaders, to reverse the biodiversity and climate crises".  ICN image M Mazur CBCEW

The Irish Catholic Church have produced these resources for the Season of Creation 2022 under the theme Listen To The Voice Of Creation. 

In a judgment handed down late on Monday, Mr Justice Holgate said the strategy lacked any explanation or quantification of how the government’s plans would achieve the emissions target, and as such had failed to meet its obligations under Climate Change Act (CCA) 2008.  The Guardian.

A ferocious blaze has ripped through the pine forests in the Bordeaux region of France for five days straight, while wildfires in Portugal have killed one person.  The Independent.

"In working together, men and women of good will can address the scale and complexity of the issues that lie before us, protect the human family and God's gift of creation from climate extremes, and foster the goods of justice and peace." Pope Francis.  ICN

Representatives from across Scotland’s faith communities have written to UK Government minister and COP26 president Alok Sharma asking for a meeting to discuss what progress has been made since COP26, the United Nations Climate Change Conference, which was held in Glasgow in November 2021.

The “deep interdependency” between societal wellbeing and ecosystems shows that “western science has finally caught up with that which Indigenous people have known for a long time”.  Carbon Brief.

SNP ministers have been urged to drop their “ideological opposition” to nuclear power in light of the current energy crunch.  Image by catatanbelajar from Pixabay 

9 out of 22 Catholic dioceses in England and Wales have now divested from fossil fuels. Last October, ahead of COP26, the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Scotland and all Catholic dioceses in Scotland announced their divestment. ICN

A new report by Green Alliance, an independent thinktank, shows that the food used by the UK alone for biofuels could feed 3.5 million people.The Guardian.

Cancelling poor nations’ historic debts would allow their governments to channel money into climate adaptation.   The Guardian.

We manage CARES - the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme. CARES supports communities across Scotland to engage with, participate in and benefit from the energy transition to net zero emissions.

Last November, in his prior role as Bishop of Galloway (Scotland), he was instrumental in leading the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Scotland to divest from fossil fuels ahead of the United Nations 26th Climate Change Conference in Glasgow. Laudato Si Movement.

Catholic leaders from Oceania, including Indigenous Peoples, Cardinals, Jesuits, and Laudato Si' Movement members, will seek to amplify the voices of the most vulnerable and advocate for God's creation. image unsplash.

Somalia alone used to import 92 per cent of its wheat from Russia and Ukraine, but now supply lines are blocked.”  UN.

World Oceans Day marked on 8 June, reminds us of the significant role oceans have in everyday life. Moreover, the 2022 theme – Revitalization: collective action for the ocean – underlines the importance of acting together to save our ocean.  UN

Stop Climate Chaos Scotland response to greenhouse gas emissions’ data: Emissions targets met but greater action needed.

Juliet Schor, professor of sociology at Boston College, and lead researcher on the pilot, said: "The four-day week is generally considered to be a triple dividend policy - helping employees, companies, and the climate.  Sky News.

The Ocean is the planet’s largest ecosystem, regulating the climate, and providing livelihoods for billions. But its health is in danger. The second UN Ocean Conference, due to take place in June, will be an important opportunity to redress the damage that mankind continues to inflict on marine life and livelihoods.  UN 

Today is the 7th anniversary of the landmark encyclical on care for our common home #LaudatoSi Have a look at this practical guide with ideas for the short, medium & long term for individuals & parishes.

"As people of faith we are called to be custodians of God's creation, 'this is essential to a life of virtue; it is not an optional or a secondary aspect of our Christian experience' (Laudato Si, 217). On this the seventh anniversary of its publication, I strongly encourage all people to read Laudato Si' and inform themselves of their faith-based ecological obligation.  ICN.

During Laudato Si Week which runs from 22nd May - 29 May 2022, you are invited to become part of the community by joining the many events. These webinars, gatherings and discussions will offer information about new developments, hands-on guidance from leading experts, and opportunities to pray and to reflect on your journey with Laudato Si’.

Statement of the secretaries general of national commissions of Justice and Peace Europe gathered on May 14th - 15th 2022 in Szombathely/Hungary.

“Renewables are the only path to real energy security, stable power prices and sustainable employment opportunities. If we act together, the renewable energy transformation can be the peace project of the 21st century,” said Mr Guterres.

The minister will use a speech on Monday to urge countries to accelerate climate action despite the current global challenges.  Independent.

The UK made history in November 2021 by helping to secure the first mention of the need to tackle fossil fuels in a global climate agreement, at the COP26 summit in Glasgow.  Factcheck.

Our oceans will continue to become warmer and more acidic, sea ice and glaciers will continue to melt, sea level will continue to rise and our weather will become more extreme. Arctic warming is disproportionately high and what happens in the Arctic affects all of us,”  UN News  

As the war in Ukraine wages on, the Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States, British Archbishop Paul Gallagher, is planning to visit Kyiv next week, where he is expected to hold top level meetings.  CRUX.

“A condition in our modelling is that we produce the same amount of food per head in 2050,” he said. “But it’s very difficult to do this unless you see a change in farming practice, and especially unless you see a shift in arable farming versus livestock.  The Guardian.

Juliette Bone explains her role as a Columban Faith in Action Volunteer and encourages other young people to consider the year long position which, she explains, will provide brilliant opportunities for young people to delve deeper into their faith through action and encounter.

Pope Francis has once again strongly spoken out against nuclear weapons. In a 25 minute meeting today with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, before the General Audience, he said the use and possession of nuclear weapons is inconceivable.  ICN.

The bishops called for a wider reassessment of refugee policies, saying the people fleeing violence or persecution have a “moral claim on our assistance, whether they fit legal definitions of a refugee or not”.  The Tablet.

food for thought on Chernobyl Disaster Remembrance Day.  ICN.

John Kerry – President Biden’s special presidential envoy for climate – says he doesn’t “see the evidence yet” of global leaders revisiting their national climate pledges as agreed at COP26 in Glasgow last year. Washington Post.

"developed countries, those who are largely responsible for climate change, must take responsibility for this. We must help those who are suffering because of it".  ICN.

MPs heard that more Government support would be required in the coming months to avoid a disaster for the poorest households.  the i.
 

The Earth Day 2022 Theme is Invest In Our Planet. This is the moment to change it all — the business climate, the political climate, and how we take action on climate. Now is the time for the unstoppable courage to preserve and protect our health, our families, our livelihoods.  Earthday.org.

The Pontifical Academy for Sciences issues a declaration calling for an end to the war in Ukraine and urging nations to avoid the proliferation of nuclear weapons.  Vatican News.

Justice & Peace Scotland, in conjunction with Sancta Familia Media have produced a video featuring four of our Scottish Bishops with many young people and laity representing every diocese in Scotland to reaffirm our opposition to nuclear weapons and to mark the 40th anniversary the Scottish Bishops 1982 landmark statement on nuclear weapons.

“As we meditate this week on the passion of Christ may we pray for the people of Ukraine, Syria, Yemen and elsewhere who are enduring their passion.  Archbishop Nolan.  The Scottish Catholic.

More than 17,000 people flee their homes as landslides engulf villages, cutting off roads and power.  The storm came four months after super-typhoon Rai devastated swathes of the archipelago nation, killing more than 400 people and leaving hundreds of thousands homeless.  The Guardian.

“May this war cease! May weapons fall silent. Stop sowing death and destruction.”  Vatican News.

The new report also reinforces how social justice, climate justice and inclusive public participation is essential to achieving the necessary transformations in energy and economic systems sufficiently quick and at the national and global scale.  CIDSE

The Working Group III report provides an updated global assessment of climate change mitigation progress and pledges, and examines the sources of global emissions. It explains developments in emission reduction and mitigation efforts, assessing the impact of national climate pledges in relation to long-term emissions goals. IPCC

The soil is heavily contaminated but, despite that, Russian troops were ordered to dig defensive earthworks, say Ukrainians who've now retaken the site after Russia's retreat.  Sky News.

"The pope clearly says some forms of pollution are part of people's daily experience, and they're constantly being exposed to atmospheric pollution, pollution of the water, pollution of soil.  Earthbeat.

Irrefutably, fossil fuels have become a weapon of mass destruction, both for war in Ukraine and in the climate crisis. Still, we must continue believing that we can overcome not only a war in Ukraine and conflicts in other regions of the world but also our dependency on oil, gas and coal, now and forever.  Earthbeat.

 “In March 1982 the Scottish Bishops published a pastoral letter on Peace and Disarmament.  In this letter they challenged not just the use of nuclear weapons, something the church has always condemned, but they challenged also the very notion of deterrence and the morality of deterrence". ICN.

"Unfortunately, the violent aggression against Ukraine does not stop, a senseless massacre where every day there is a repetition of slaughter and atrocities. There is no justification for this!  ICN.

Ahead of the Government’s Spring Statement and energy security strategy, more than 200 UK church leaders have written to Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Chancellor Rishi Sunak calling on them to tackle the climate emergency, address the cost of living crisis and stop all new fossil fuel developments.  Operation Noah.

"In the face of the shocking loss of life, bloodshed, displacement of people and destruction of property in Ukraine, we make these heartfelt appeals."  ICN

Please join us if you can at the South Gate at Faslane on Ash Wednesday, 2nd March 2022 at (3pm) as we  witness to the Peace of Christ at the home of Trident.

Veteren #Peace campaigner Bruce Kent delivers a letter to the Russian embassy in London urging the Russian Gov to de-escalate.  ICN.

Report says human actions are causing dangerous disruption, and window to secure a liveable future is closing.  Analysis: This report asks: what is at stake? In short, everything.  The Guardian.  

The Working Group II contribution to the IPCC Sixth Assessment Report assesses the impacts of climate change, looking at ecosystems, biodiversity, and human communities at global and regional levels. It also reviews vulnerabilities and the capacities and limits of the natural world and human societies to adapt to climate change.

Pope Francis made a heartfelt appeal for peace in Ukraine, saying that the threat of war had caused "great pain in my heart." 

Laudato Si’ calls us toward sustainability in the spirit of integral ecology. With profound care for each other, our Creator, and all creation, we are building a better future together. 

Recycling is not the answer as more toxic chemicals are added to the old plastic to make more plastic. It is not the solution. Phasing out plastic is the only option. Replacing it with alternative safe materials like stainless steel glass, beeswax-coated wrapping and above all, platinum silicone, is the solution.  Fr Shay Cullen ICN.  Image: Fiqri Aziz Octavian on Unsplash.

Air pollution from transport is responsible for thousands of premature deaths in Scotland every year, and causes serious heart and lung issues.  Friends of the earth Scotland.

The pope's words echoed remarks he made last July on the occasion of "Sea Sunday," an annual day dedicated to "all those who rely on the sea for their work and livelihood."  "Take care of the health of the sea: no plastic in the sea!" Earthbeat.  image:Unsplash/Naja Bertolt Jensen)

"As I overcome my initial shock at being appointed Archbishop my thoughts now turn to the challenges that lies ahead....from now on I belong to Glasgow. And I assure the people of Glasgow of my commitment and dedication to them.  ICN.

Pope Francis has named justice and peace champion Bishop William Nolan to lead the Archdiocese of Glasgow.  The Tablet.

“As we work to secure a green recovery from the pandemic, free bus travel will create new opportunities, protect our climate while at the same time reducing financial barriers for young people right across the country.”  STV.

This year, the rabbis decided to go ahead with planting trees - and instead give violence a rest. Instead of dropping their tree-planting tools, they decided to adopt the motto "drop the violence."  ICN  image:  Rabbis for Human Rights.

"It's the idea that if we do face the reality, even if we've made a big mess so far, but if we face it with courage and with realism, it can be turned around with God's help," said Czerny. "And that's good news." Earthbeat.

Europe lived through its warmest summer, and temperature records in western US and Canada were broken by several degrees. Extreme wildfires in July and August burnt almost entire towns to the ground and killed hundreds.  BBC.

Milk is the third most wasted food and drink product in the UK, after potatoes and bread, with around 490 million pints wasted every year.

My Dear Brothers & Sisters... have a look at this video version of Bishop Nolan's written letter for Day of Prayer For Peace 2022.

Here is the list of newly updated Intercessary Prayers For 'Day Of Prayer For Peace' which accompany Bishop Nolan's letter.  We ask that the letter and prayers are read at all Masses on Sunday 2nd January 2022.

Letter to the Catholics of Scotland on 'Day Of Prayer For Peace', 2nd January 2022 from Bishop Nolan, President of Justice & Peace Scotland.  Read the full text here.

The UK's first deposit return scheme will go live in Scotland in 2023, and has been labelled 'one of the most environmentally ambitious and accessible in Europe'.  GlasgowLive.

Every 3 months the National Commission of Justice & Peace Scotland meet and each diocese gives an update on their activities.  The December 2021 update is now available here.

On Thursday 16th December 7-8pm Join the Faith Plans team for an evening of reflection on what next for climate action post-COP26. We will hear how the faiths are major stakeholders in the planet, and how faiths around the world are creating Faith Plans designed to realign their assets – investments, land, building, educational and medical institutes and their lifestyles – as part of the Faith Plans programme.

Loss and damage is the term for compensation for the damage being caused in poorer countries, which have done little to cause global heating. In Glasgow a coalition of 134 countries, representing 85% of the world’s population, demanded the setting up of a loss-and-damage facility but the proposal was killed by the US.  Guardian.

Danny Sweeny, Social Justice Coordinator with Justice & Peace Scotland reflects on COP26 in Glasgow.

“Stand up. I appoint you as a witness of what you have seen." (cf. Acts 26:16)

Justice & Peace Scotland representative, Fr David Stewart, reflects on COP26 in Glasgow for America, The Jesuit Review Magazine.

It aims to spark a cultural shift away from exploitation of the planet and its resources to a focus on preservation for the sake of present and future generations during a decade scientists say is critical to rein in greenhouse gas emissions.  Earthbeat.

As a climate activist who grew up as part of an indigenous community in the Amazon rainforest, Txai Suruí spoke to world leaders about the direct impacts of climate change that her tribe is already experiencing.  But after the speech she was publicly criticised by Brazilian President Jair Bolsanaro, for "attacking Brazil"

Pacific representatives and negotiators have condemned the outcome of the COP26  meeting as “watered down” and a “monumental failure” that puts Pacific nations in severe existential danger, with one saying that Australia’s refusal to support funding for loss and damage suffered by Pacific countries was “a deep betrayal” of the region.

As Catholics, united for our common home, we urgently ask leaders at the United Nations 26th Climate Change Conference to follow Pope Francis' leadership in reaching a prophetic final agreement.

The science is clear: an extractive, unsustainable economy, fuelled by fossil fuels, is causing the climate crisis that's destroying God's creation and harming the most vulnerable among us the most, those who have done little to cause the crisis.

His Excellency Archbishop Claudio Gugerotti, Papal Nuncio to Great Britain delivered a message from Pope Francis to the people of Scotland as part of his visit representing the Holy Father at COP26.

Through COP26 Glasgow has been host to indigenous leaders from around the world. From the Andes in Patagona, the Amazonas, to Alaska Minga Indígena brings together their wisdom and a voice world leaders need to hear.

A journey through endangered and minority languages that reveal different ways of relating to land and nature. Brought together for COP26 sharing 26 words to give a global audience fresh inspiration for tackling our environmental crisis.

World leaders will have to return to the negotiating table next year with improved plans to cut greenhouse gases because the proposed targets agreed at the COP26 summit are too weak to prevent disastrous levels of global heating, the three architects of the Paris agreement have warned.

Justice and Peace Scotland along with our partners involved with 24 Hours for the Climate have lobbied COP26 negotiators with stories of the impact of the climate crisis from across the world.

Read the stories here

Our Bishop President William Nolan gave the homily for the COP26 International Mass.

Watch it here

Alongside our stories we have written to all COP negotiators. Read the letter here.

Pope Francis has urged political leaders at COP26 to deliver "effective responses" to the climate crisis that give hope to future generations.  He spoke also of "genuine conversion" of all people with and a sense of shared responsbility for our world and solidarity based on justice.  

Bishop Nolan gave a wonderful talk in Glasgow recently on the topic of "Where Is God At COP26?".  Watch his talk here.

Listen into this BBC Radio Scotland interview with Bishop Nolan on the Scottish Catholic Church's decision to divest from fossil fuels and why there should be no new oil and gas exploration.  Scroll to 54 minutes for the start.

The Catholic bishops of Scotland have announced their divestment from fossil fuels in advance of the COP26 summit in Glasgow, alongside 72 other faith organisations internationally. The Tablet.

The letter comes just after the First Minister said it would be “fundamentally wrong” for countries like Scotland to “keep exploring for and extracting oil and gas” and announced that the Scottish Government will no longer support unlimited extraction of fossil fuels. Campaigners say the First Minister must put her words into action and oppose the climate wrecking project.  SCCS.

Today, Tuesday 26th October 2021, The Bishops’ Conference of Scotland and all Catholic dioceses in Scotland announce fossil fuel divestment.  Press Release.

Global divestment webinar: Faith institutions show leadership on fossil fuel divestment and investment in climate solutions ahead of COP26.  Keynote Speaker - Bishop Nolan, President of Justice & Peace Scotland. Thursday 28th October 2021 5pm - 6.30pm

 In an open letter to the First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, published in the Herald today, over 60 leading health professionals  including consultants, GPs and medical academics are calling for more action to be taken on air pollution to save lives. Read the letter here.

From 1-12 November 2021, the COP26 Green Zone will be open to the public at the Glasgow Science Centre.

18th October is marked annually as Anti-Human Trafficking Day.  This Justice & Peace Scotland video features our faith leaders and those with lived experience of human trafficking.  Our aim is to spread awareness of this crime as well as the tools to do something about it.

Our faith communities are united in caring for human life and the natural world. We share a belief in a hopeful future, as well as an obligation to be responsible in caring for our common home, the Earth.

"A million species of plants and animals risk extinction within a matter of decades; almost three quarters of land and 66% of marine environments have been significantly altered by humanity and that more than 85% of wetland areas have been lost."  ICN

Trillions of dollars a year are ‘adding fuel to the fire’ of the climate crisis, experts say.  The Guardian.

Two more earthquakes have rattled the Spanish island of La Palma amid a fresh surge of lava from an erupting volcano.  Sky News.

In response to the "grave threat" of climate change, heads of the world's major religions united at the Vatican to issue an unprecedented joint appeal to government leaders at next month's United Nations climate summit, calling for "urgent, radical and responsible action"  Earthbeat.  CNS photo/Paul Haring

As the UN hosts a high-level event on energy, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher sends a video message to participants, and says that transition to accessible and clean energy is a duty that richer countries owe to poorer ones.  Vatican News.

You are invited to submit a proposal to take part in this global 24 hour vigil to pray for the success of COP26. On 5th – 6th November, this live broadcast will be an opportunity to learn from communities suffering from climate change, pray for the future of our common home, and write messages that will be delivered to COP26 negotiators. 

Opening your home (and your heart) to an international network of visiting activists, scientists, and policy makers is one of the most impactful ways you can contribute to the movement.

As we approach the COP26 climate talks in Glasgow join us on Saturday 23rd October at 1pm for this 'in-person' event as we search for God's voice amidst all the noise. 

The elite private Ivy League university, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, has by far the largest endowment of any university in the world.  Student campaigners: ‘Activism works, plain and simple’ University president cites need to decarbonize economy. Guardian.

Most people who are hungry are experiencing conflict, by which I mean violence. We have to acknowledge violence is not an exception, it’s always there.  New Internationalist

The song calls on everyone involved in the climate movement but, most especially, the world leaders coming to Glasgow for COP26 in November to act to 'Save Our Common Home'.  ICN,

"UK law and Scottish Government policy remains to drill every last drop from the North Sea, which would triple emissions from oil and gas".   Report.

"it is about reducing the material and energy throughput of the economy and bring it back into balance with the living world, Earthbeat.

This is a critical moment. Our children's future and the future of our common home depend on it.  ICN

The report called the victims "environmental defenders" killed for protecting natural resources that need to be preserved, including forests, water supplies and oceans.

"Australia doesn't want the trade deal to be made conditional to their membership of Paris Agreement, so essentially it doesn't want to be held to account.  Sky News.

The video features a young 10 year old girl (Jessie Lou Harvie) along with many other young people coming together to call on everyone involved in the climate movement but, most especially, the world leaders coming to Glasgow for COP26 in November to act to ‘Save Our Common Home’

We need your help!  Be part of the crowd scene in our music video for COP26 on Saturday 4th September at 3pm please gather in front of the SSE Hydro in Glasgow.  Click read more for further details.

Season of Creation is a time of grace that the Church, in ecumenical dialogue, offers to humanity to renew its relationship with the Creator and with creation, through celebration, conversion and commitment together.  Taking action during the Season of Creation is living out our Catholic faith.  This short video explains more.

Every year during the Season of Creation, Christians on six continents unite to pray, take action, and advocate for our common home.  This year’s theme is “A home for all? Renewing the Oikos of God,” and the logo reflects that theme as it’s Abraham’s tent, which symbolizes “a home for all.” Season of Creation.

Local Energy Scotland administer and manage the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES), which is here to help you on this journey to net zero. CARES is offering grant funding, advice and support to faith groups and community organisations that want to decarbonise their community buildings by installing low carbon or renewable technologies, such as heat pumps or solar panels.

Communities seeking to live in the spirit of Laudato Si' must reflect a sense of mutual caring and mutual sharing that sees the Earth as part of that community and not simply a repository of resources.  Earthbeat.

Hypocrisy rules as we prepare to host Cop26 and Boris Johnson prepares to approve a new oilfield off Shetland.  The Guardian.

The Race Against Time saw a costumed Boris Johnson race against a young SCIAF supporter donning a clock. SCIAF is using the stunt to draw attention to the countdown to COP26 and the urgency required to tackle climate change.  ICN.

Campaigners need to engage closely with bank customers to mobilise pressure on the banks. The prospect of anything close to 10% of customers switching bank will motivate the banks to try and protect their reputation with clear evidence of cutting their financing of high carbon businesses.   Renewal.

Experts say chancellor refusing to commit spending needed to shift economy to low-carbon footing.  Guardian.  
 

An open letter urging Boris Johnson not to approve the new Cambo oil field off the coast of Shetland has been delivered to the PM.  77 signatures from a range of groups across the UK and internationally have signed the letter.  Read it here.

A massive Thank You! To our friends at Independent Catholic News for running this article on A Prayer For Our Earth, a prayer service resource that can be used by parishes, groups and schools everywhere to pray for the success of COP26

Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg has condemned the fashion industry over its "huge" contribution to climate change, in a magazine interview.  BBC.

Facing the Crisis, a new digital exhibition, explores the impacts of the climate crisis on people and communities across the world.

"World leaders must come together with urgency for the common good and commit to making real progress, on a global level, not just pay lip service to the facts and figures of which we are all too aware. This is a time to be acting for the common good, not self-interest or self-serving politics."  ICN

The Working Group I contribution to the Sixth Assessment Report addresses the most up-to-date physical understanding of the climate system and climate change, bringing together the latest advances in climate science, and combining multiple lines of evidence from paleoclimate, observations, process understanding, and global and regional climate simulations.  IPCC

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change states every corner of the planet is already being affected and it could get far worse  Guardian.

Congregation Leader Sister Susan Francois. ‘The time is now to act, to put our values into action on behalf of Earth and all creation.’  Brightnow.

The number of items on shelves in grocery stores gives the impression that "there's a tremendous amount of diversity in our food system, "But the reality is that all of that diversity of products in a grocery store is basically controlled by four to six companies."  Earthbeat.

Dealing with the aftermath of the recent floods in parts of Germany will be a long-haul effort for people, said Bishop Stephan Ackermann of Trier, whose diocese was one of the worst-hit regions.  Earthbeat.

The Global Catholic Climate Movement (GCCM) has a new name, with the blessing of Pope Francis: the Laudato Si' Movement. It was announced on 29 July in a webinar attended by more than 8,000 participants from around the world.  ICN.

Let me tell you a story - of my own personal ecological conversion. I believe there is great power in sharing our stories, so I offer this to you as one story, and you can take from it what you need.  ICN

$370MILLION OF FOOD IS WASTED ON FARMS.  Reducing this could support significant progress towards the SDGs of ‘No Poverty’ and ‘Zero Hunger’, particularly in low-income countries where postharvest waste amounts to 291 million tonnes each year.   WWF

Stop Climate Chaos Scotland lay out what action the Scottish, UK governments and major world polluters need to take at COP26 in Glasgow this November.
'Every crisis needs a turning point and #COP26 in Glasgow must provide it'

Alok Sharma, the UK’s president-designate of Cop26, said: “We were not able to get every country to agree to phasing out coal power, which was very disappointing. We will certainly have more discussions in the coming months …Unless we get all countries signed up to a coal phase-out, keeping 1.5C in reach is going to be extremely difficult.”

The reuse and repair business was opened recently by Remade Network, a grassroots social enterprise which wants the public to rethink their relationship with their possessions.  BBC.

Bishop John Arnold of Salford says: "this meeting, a few months before COP26 in Glasgow, allows the voice of the church to come together, unite and look at ways we can take the call for action back to our parishes and communities to create a different legacy for the next generation."  ICN.

Help is needed recruiting volunteers for COP26. There are a number of roles (and over a thousand shifts!) available covering the three key activities: Civil Society Hubs, Mass Mobilisations and the People's Summit. This is a joint project with the COP26 Coalition, and all the info - and the online application form - can be found here

Let us learn how to take a break, "to turn off the mobile phone" and look at one another, "cultivate silence, to contemplate nature, to regenerate ourselves in dialogue with God."  ICN

This is especially helpful in poorer countries where legal barriers make it difficult to hold foreign companies accountable. An ecocide law, would create an arena in which marginalized communities like Nigeria have a voice against powerful, polluting actors. “Most of this ecocide devastation is happening in communities where voices are not heard,” Time.

Nordic countries have registered near-record temperatures over the weekend, including highs of 34C (93.2F) in some places.  The latest figures came after Finland’s national meteorological institute registered its hottest temperature for June since records began in 1844. The Guardian.

"If these bills are passed, neither these indigenous communities nor the Amazon rainforest will exist within the next decade," wrote the President of REPAM Brazil, Bishop Erwin Kräutler.  ICN.

Booking now:  An online event - Reflection and Action on Climate in your Parish/Local Community.

Ahead of the G7 group of nations summit taking place in Carbis Bay, Cornwall from 11-13 June 2021, bishops William Nolan, Richard Moth and John Arnold representing the Catholic communities of England, Wales and Scotland have written to Prime Minister Boris Johnson to stress that we must work together to ensure a just and sustainable future for our global community.

One of the hardest parts of writing about the history of the climate crisis was stumbling across warnings from the 1950s, 60s and 70s, musing about how things might get bad sometime after the year 2000 if no one did anything about fossil fuels. They still had hope back then. Reading that hope today hurts.  Photograph: Alain Nogues/Sygma/Getty Images.  Guardian.

The Marine Conservation Society have produced this list of 31 ways to reduce your plastic use.  Have a read through and tick off the ones your already do and make a plan to tackle the others.

Catholics encouraged to begin planning meaningful action for ecumenical Season of Creation before UN summits.

Dozens of people have died in Canada amid an unprecedented heatwave that has smashed temperature records.  BBC.

With COP26 described as the ‘last best chance' to address the climate crisis, our choice of bank is more critical than ever before. Sustainable banking enables us to align our finances with our values in a way that traditional banking, the evidence shows, simply cannot.  The Tablet.

Justice & Peace Scotland are signatories to this letter written by the COP26 Coalition to world leaders at the start of the G7 summit.

A group of young Christians from across Cornwall are urging their peers to sign an open letter to World Leaders demanding climate justice ahead of the G7 summit.  ICN

Download the 'Prayer For Our Earth' Service booklet here.   We encourage you to use this booklet to hold a service wherever you are in the UK to pray for the success of COP26 during the Season of Creation, 1st Sept - 4th Oct.

As we approach Pentecost 2021 The Scottish Bishops have released the following Pastoral Letter celebrating the Sixth Anniversary of Laudato Si’.

This is a big week for the Prime Minister. He must deliver far more ambitious commitments in Cornwall to secure vaccine equity, debt cancellation and climate finance

explains the recent changes to EU energy labels which we find on our domestic appliances, and the looks at the implications of Brexit.  Ethical Consumer.

Scotland’s Catholic Bishops have announced their intention to set up a “Care of Creation Office” ahead of the COP26 meeting in Glasgow later this year. Commenting on the decision, Bishop William Nolan, the Bishop of Galloway and President of the National Justice & Peace Commission said: 
 
 

We cannot turn back time. But we can grow trees, green our cities, rewild our gardens, change our diets and clean up rivers and coasts. We are the generation that can make peace with nature.

"Here, when you are hospitalized, you often have to take water with you. There's not enough for everyone." This is the situation in Kisantu, a town about 100 kilometers south of Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.  Earthbeat.

The new Laudato Si’ Action Platform is a Vatican-led effort to empower Catholic institutions, communities, and families to implement Laudato Si’. “The Laudato Si’ Action Platform is a journey towards total sustainability in the spirit of integral ecology,” the Rev. Kureethadam said.

New report from The Marine Conservation Society in partnership with Rewilding Britain exploring ocean-based solutions for fight the climate crisis.

Support the climate justice movement by hosting the fantastic folks coming to COP26 Glasgow 1st – 12th November.  Stop Climate Chaos Scotland.
 

Pope Francis kicked off his own “Laudato Si” week Sunday, which wraps up an entire year dedicated to 2015 encyclical letter on the environment, the first ever dedicated entirely to that topic, and its dramatic call to hear “the cry of the Earth and the cry of the poor.” CRUX
 

Laudato Si’ Week 2021, to be held May 16-25, will be the crowning event of the Special Laudato Si’ Anniversary Year, and a celebration of the great progress the whole Church has made on its journey to ecological conversion.  Laudato Si’ Week 2021 will also be a time to reflect on what the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us and prepare for the future with hope.  Search the events happening here.

"For years we have tried, but our voice is not heard, "We don't have freedom of expression right now, Our land is being taken, and it's destroying our life. Our life depends on the land."  EarthBeat.

Because methane is a key ingredient in the formation of ground-level ozone (smog), a powerful climate forcer and dangerous air pollutant, a 45 per cent reduction would prevent 260 000 premature deaths, 775 000 asthma-related hospital visits, 73 billion hours of lost labour from extreme heat, and 25 million tonnes of crop losses annually.  UN Environment Programme.  

World Fair Trade Day is on the second Saturday of May and its purpose is to celebrate the contributions to the fight against poverty, exploitation, and climate change. The Fair Trade movement is all about ensuring that workers around the globe are treated fairly with decent wages and working conditions. 

“Regulate the financial sphere and protect citizens from its dangers” — this is the proposal of Pope Francis for bringing the world of finance closer to the real economy and to the lives of ordinary people. #TheRealEconomy #ThePopeVideo

Retailers raise concerns over effort to legalise private occupation of public land they fear will see more forests burned and cleared for agriculture.  Independent.
 

The gap between rich and poor countries on vaccinations highlights the failure of richer nations to see it in their self-interest to urgently help poorer ones fight a shared crisis.  The New York Times ​

The UK has increased its nuclear warheads by 44%, while cutting aid to the world’s poorest by 30%. #DefundTheMilitary. Where do you think the UK’s military budget should be spent instead? CAAT Campaign.

In twin Earth Day messages, Pope Francis warned a gathering of world leaders and the global community at large that "we are at the edge" with climate change, and the time to take action is now.  Earthbeat.

Billionaires, CEOS and union executives to help sell president’s climate-friendly transformation of US economy at virtual summit.  Guardian.

Take A Pledge - take a look at these practical suggestions on how you can make a positive change for the environment this Earth Day.

Because no one in Farida's village asks 'is climate change real?'
They ask what will we eat now that the floods have destroyed our crops?
Where we will sleep tonight, with our house underwater?   Tradecraft.

Putting Human Life and  Dignity at the Centre.  On the run up to the Scottish Parliament elections on 6th May 2021 the Catholic bishops of Scotland have released the following letter.

Mauro Petriccione is the Director General for Climate Action, in charge of overseeing the climate elements of the European Green Deal.  Recording from the George Washington University Webinar Series,  "Leadership in Our Time".

On the run up to the Scottish parliamentary elections on May 6th 2021 we are campaigning for Climate Justice for our poorest brothers and sisters all over the world who have done the least to cause climate change but suffer its affects the most and we want the Scottish government increase the Climate Justice Fund.

Japan has approved a plan to release more than one million tonnes of contaminated water from the destroyed Fukushima nuclear plant into the sea.  BBC.
 

Climate activist Greta Thunberg takes a year off school to explore the science of global warming and challenge world leaders, calling for action on climate change.  BBC Iplayer.  Episode 1.

Watch this recording of the online training event giving tips on speaking to your local election candidates about climate justice on the run up to the Scottish elections on 6th May.  #ClimateJusticeScot.

For the first time in recorded history, the concentration of atmospheric carbon dioxide, or CO2, was measured at more than 420 parts per million at the Mauna Loa Observatory on the Big Island of Hawaii.  Washington Post. 

Britain will highlight how the poorest who have done the least to cause climate change are suffering the worst of its impacts, and urge rich countries to offer more support at an online ministerial summit on Wednesday 7th April.  Reuters.

Pope Francis says the new booklet "urges us to see the tragedy of prolonged uprootedness that causes our brothers and sisters to cry out, year after year… it invites us to become aware of the indifference of societies and governments to this tragedy. It asks us to see, and to care."  ICN

40+ organisations that have signed a letter to NatWest Group CEO Alison Rose to update the group's defence sector policy to reflect that nuclear weapons are now prohibited under international law. The call comes following widespread condemnation of the UK government's decision to increase the cap on the nuclear weapons in its stockpile by up to 40%.  ICN

This will be an election campaign like no other and it’s important that candidates get to hear from you directly so they know that there is a real demand for Scotland to do more to stand up for international solidarity and champion climate justice. The more voices we have, the louder our call.  Join us for tips on speaking to your local candidates about climate justice in the run up to the Scottish Parliament elections on 6 May.

Reporter Kevin Keane investigates what Scots really think about the change to our climate and asks whether we are able and willing to act now to save the planet.  BBC.

"Catholics must be clear", he said, that "action on climate change is part of Catholic Social Teaching" and "this battle is for all of us." He urged Catholics to bring the issue "into our prayers and our liturgy," and preach the gospel "in a way that is relevant".  

Now is the time to use our collective voice to ensure that the next group of MSPs elected to the Scottish Parliament will stand up for international solidarity.

Capital of China suffers ‘hazardous’ levels of air pollution with authorities issuing second-highest safety alert.  The Guardian.
 

In November Boris Johnson will host the most important global meeting ever to take place on UK soil. The outcomes of this UN summit on climate change, known as Cop26, will help shape the fates of billions of people for decades to come. For the UK it is also the first big stress-test of its new role in the world after leaving the EU.  The Guardian.
 

According to the United Nations data, three out of ten people in the world lack access to safe drinking services. In addition, more than 80 percent of wastewater resulting from human activities is discharged into rivers or the sea without any treatment, which causes its contamination, which leads them to estimate that by 2050, close to 60 percent of the world’s total population won’t have access to potable water.

The pandemic brought some big improvements—but many cities still had unsafe air. “We certainly hope that we can learn these lessons, and that we can see that human beings are the source of pollution and we can do something about it, It’s not just the weather, it’s us. And not only can we stop the cycle, but we can make improvements that will turn the tide.”  image IQ Air 

The climate emergency hasn't gone away and it's time to act.  With the Scottish elections almost upon us it is important that we all take the time to talk to all of the candidates in our areas about climate justice.  Together lets raise our voices for climate justice here in Scotland and across the world. Campaign video.

The ripple effects from one of the world’s worst nuclear catastrophes continue after a decade, with implications for human health and remediation efforts.  National Geographic 

As Part of their series of talks - 'Faith in the Time of Covid' - by the Archdiocese of St Andrew's & Edinburgh, The Rt Hon Gordon Brown gives this talk highlighting the importance of Catholic Social Teaching.

We wish to demonstrate the support of the Scottish Churches for urgent action in response to the climate crisis and to support a just and green recovery from Covid-19 as Scotland prepares to host the UN climate talks, COP26 (1-12 November 2021).

With only nine years left to meet the 2030 target to reduce emissions by 75% it’s crucial that the Scottish Government’s Climate Change Plan update sets out and delivers the transformational changes needed to achieve these reductions and puts Scotland rapidly on course to a healthier, fairer, low carbon future. It’s Time for Action.

A case could be made that Berta was a 'Laudato Si' martyr, in a long line of martyrs defending the Earth. As co-founder of the Civic Council of Popular and Indigenous Organisations of Honduras (COPINH), Berta had led the Lenca people and other indigenous communities in a non-violent struggle for the integrity of their territories and their sovereignty.  ICN

Concerns have been raised by anti-nuclear weapons campaigners of what could happen if a serious accident was to take place after an unmarked military convoy believed to be carrying nuclear weapons passed through Glasgow on Friday 5th March 2021. GlasgowLive Picture: NukeWatch UK.

There is a fundamental shift underway as the global economy begins to decarbonise. Populations that are heavily reliant on fossil-fuel production face lower government revenues and job losses as the pace and inevitability of the energy transition increases.  Carbon Tracker.

Join this webinar to explore how Churches in Scotland can divest from fossil fuels and invest in the just and green recovery ahead of COP26  3rd March 2021 at 7pm

For two weeks each year at the end of February and start of March, thousands of individuals, companies and groups across the UK come together to share the stories of the people who grow our food and drinks. mine our gold and who grow the cotton in our clothes, people who are often exploited and underpaid.  Join one of the Fairtrade events over the next 2 weeks.

This year some churches are inviting their members to make Lenten sacrifices that raise awareness about caring for the Earth in an era of potentially catastrophic global warming.  Fast Company.  Image: Alex Malder/iStock, seamartini/iStock

The Diocese of Salford has launched a new research project that Bishop John Arnold hopes will spearhead the efforts of the Catholic community in England and Wales to tackle the current ecological crisis, by paving the way to a sustainable, carbon neutral future. ICN

Pollution from power plants, vehicles and other sources accounted for one in five of all deaths that year, more detailed analysis reveals.  Guardian.

Chief Executive of KLM, said: “The transition from fossil fuel to sustainable alternatives is one of the largest challenges in aviation. This first flight on synthetic kerosene shows that it is possible in practice and that we can move forward.” The Guardian. 

COP26 President’s challenge to every sector of the global economy to reach critical net zero tipping points.
 

Throughout Lent, the Global Catholic Climate Movement is holding a series of online evenings with inspiring speakers, films, prayer and discussion, challenging people to respond to Pope Francis' call to Care for Our Common Home in Laudato Si'.

As part of COP26, Glasgow City Council is looking to enlist the help of friendly, outgoing and enthusiastic volunteers to contribute to the success of this momentous event. 

Focus must be on justice for those fleeing impact of extreme weather events, says new scientific adviser to Vatican.  The Guardian.

"The entry into force of the ban treaty signals a massive change globally. Recognising that nuclear weapons are one of the greatest threats to humanity - the countries of the United Nations have outlawed them. Countries which everyday threaten to launch nuclear weapons are outside the norm of civilized society.  ICN.
 

Climate Assembly UK's final report sets out a clear, internally consistent and timely path for reaching the UK's target of net zero emissions by 2050.

UK climate assembly participants hail a life-changing event.  From buying an electric car to starting a secondhand clothes business, attendees talk of the unexpected delights of the first UK citizens’ assembly.  The Guardian.

Our mission to create cleaner living using natural resources could itself cause widespread environmental harm, scientists now warn.  The Guardian.
 

Coroner says failure to reduce pollution levels to legal limits was factor in death of Ella Kissi-Debrah, who had severe asthma.  Guardian.

Pope Francis sends a video message to participants in the UN’s virtual climate summit, and highlights the Holy See’s efforts to promote a “culture of care” in order to combat climate change. Vatican News.

“the effects of our actions and decisions affect you personally. Therefore, you can’t remain outside the places that are shaping the present and future. You’re either part of them or history will pass you by”.  "The time has come to change direction," he said. "Let us not rob younger generations of their hope in a better future."  message from Pope Francis to The Economy of Francesco Conference.

It takes thousands of years for soils to form, meaning protection is needed urgently, say scientists.  The Guardian.
 

Host of COP26 next year, Britain's decision to cut the aid budget weakens trust in climate action.  Global Citizen.
 

Plan to draw up legal definition of ‘ecocide’ attracts support from European countries and small island nations.  The Guardian.
 

Indian workers in factories supplying the supermarket chains Marks & Spencer, Tesco and Sainsbury's, and the fashion brand Ralph Lauren, told the BBC they are being subjected to exploitative conditions.

47 faith institutions from 21 countries, including nine institutions from the UK, announce their divestment from fossil fuels as a practical response to the climate emergency.  ICN.

We strongly encourage President Joe Biden to take the following actions immediately:

Millions of garment workers facing destitution as Britain’s high street billionaires fail to honour contracts.  Coronavirus could be the final nail in the coffin of the unsustainable fast fashion industry. But with some retailers failing to share the economic pain with suppliers, its demise could be fatal for millions of workers.  The Independent.  

With COP26 due to take place in Glasgow in 2021 here are the answers to 10 Frequently Asked Questions about COP26.

The Pacific Climate Warriors is a vibrant network of young people who live in 17 Pacific island nations and diaspora communities in the United States, New Zealand and Australia. Their mission is to peacefully raise awareness of their communities' vulnerability to climate change.

The book highlights that protecting creation, restoring ecosystems, providing clean air, and leaving a healthy environment for future generations is “an ethical, moral, and spiritual responsibility.”

Exclusive: expedition discovers new source of greenhouse gas off East Siberian coast has been triggered.  The Guardian.

NHS England has adopted a multiyear plan to become the world’s first carbon net zero national health system.

Wildlife across the world is facing mass extinction, including here in the UK where a quarter of mammals are at imminent risk of disappearing. Petition.

The global climate crisis will require us to transform the way we act, says His Holiness Pope Francis. Delivering a visionary TED Talk from Vatican City yesterday, the Holy Father proposes three courses of action to address the world's growing environmental problems and economic inequalities, illustrating how all of us can work together, across faiths and societies, to protect the Earth and promote the dignity of everyone. "The future is built today," he says. "And it is not built in isolation, but rather in community and in harmony." ICN. Watch the full TED Talk with translation here.

Containers were meant to carry used mattresses, carpets and rugs, but had also contained hospital waste.  Sri Lanka said containers were brought into the island in violation of international laws governing the shipping of hazardous material. Picture credit: Aljazeera
 

 Download a copy of the Season of Creation prayer 2020 and together lets making praying for a worldwide ecological conversion one of our actions this season of creation.

Costa Rica is positioning itself to be the first country in the world to be totally free of single-use plastics and fossil fuels by 2021.

The Time Is Now Campaign need you to help ensure our leaders take the right decisions this Autumn and set us on track to a healthy, green and fair recovery from Coronavirus.  Send a message to Rishi Sunak here.

Report suggests buyers of polluting vehicles should subsidise electric cars.  The Guardian.

Free, online calculator - average carbon footprint per year is 6.5 tonnes per person (UK)

The BBC One programme, which aired last night (13 September), saw the naturalist examine biodiversity loss, which threatens food and water security, undermines humans' ability to control the climate, and places us at greater risk of pandemics.

From 21st -25th Sept this year, we’re taking the learning local, inland and online so you can get involved, recording and collecting litter,  even if you live far from the coast. Whether you represent a school, a youth group, or are home educating, this resource contains all you need to get involved.

Justice & Peace Scotland have produced 12 resource sheets on various environmental topics.  This one is on Transport.  See the others on our Care For Creation page.

The Free Our City campaign is calling for "a world-class, fully-integrated and accessible public transport network that’s free at the point of use".

Joint statement issued by Cardinal Angelo Bagnasco, President of CCEE, and Rev. Christian Krieger, President of CEC

In 1990, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) noted that the greatest single impact of climate change could be on human migration with millions of people displaced by shoreline erosion, coastal flooding and agricultural disruption.  See this and other J&P Scotland climate resources here.

Leaving the EU means the Scottish Parliament must replace the EU Common Agriculture Policy and farm payments. The Agriculture Bill is before the Scottish Parliament now. We must take this key opportunity to ensure farm payments support action for nature and the climate.  Sign the petition here.

 Greta Thunberg's Travel Diary from the U.S. to Davos.

Greenpeace data raises concern over air quality and health of vulnerable people.  The Guardian.

Sign up here and join EarthBeat on an exploration of Laudato Si' through a social, political and spiritual lens. Three times a week, we’ll dive into a new section of the papal document, leading readers through an informal study of the call to care for our common home, five years on.

If governments put health, nature regeneration and climate action at the core of every decision they make in recovering from this pandemic, we can emerge as a stronger and more resilient society, and ensure the COP26 puts us on track to a safer climate future. Christina Figueres

Thank you to Liz Snodgrass for compiling this reflective retreat for Holy week.

Heal Rewilding will find lower-grade land and let it recover naturally, rather than planting.  The Guardian.

1 April 2020, This evening the UK Government announced that a decision had been taken, jointly by the UNFCCC COP Bureau with the UK and Italy, to delay COP26.

Nature is sending us a message with the coronavirus pandemic and the ongoing climate crisis, according to the UN’s environment chief, Inger Andersen.  The Guardian.

As habitat and biodiversity loss increase globally, the coronavirus outbreak may be just the beginning of mass pandemics.  Guardian.

During Laudato Si’ Week, 16-24 May, we are being asked to commit to an ambitious action that grows our response to “the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor.” We are being encouraged to take any action that is inspired by Laudato Si’ which accelerates solutions to our ecological crisis, and builds community for the long term.
There’s an urgent need to solve the ecological crisis. Our faith calls us to do more together.

Christian Climate Action (CCA) and Extinction Rebellion Faith Communities have joined forces to hold a Lenten vigil in central London and initiate 40 Days of Action, where people are invited to commit to one action during Lent to protect Planet Earth.  ICN.

BP, Shell, Chevron and Exxon accused of making huge profits while ‘passing the buck’ on climate change.  Guardian.

As we enter the Lenten season, GCCM invite you to consider the ways that we fall short of our unconditional commitment to the most vulnerable. How do our lifestyles support the illegal mines and cattle ranches in the Amazon? How do we fail to give witness to the poorest?

Former UN climate envoy joins list of experts frustrated at Britain’s lack of leadership. Guardian.

Calculate your meat, plastic and flight impact with this Eco Footprint Calculator.

Divestment from fossil fuels–and reinvestment in clean renewable energy–can go a long way towards protecting our common home from climate change and pollution. GCCM

The Church of England Pension Board, overseer of the £2.8bn retirement savings pot for the Anglican clergy, will on Thursday launch a passive index aligned with the Paris climate goals on the London Stock Exchange.  FT

Apple, Dell, Microsoft and Tesla are among the tech companies named in a lawsuit brought in the US by the families of children killed and maimed in cobalt mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Lifegate.

This year, "Laudato Si’, on Care for Our Common Home" turns five years old. The systems that support life continue to collapse all around us, and the fifth birthday of Laudato Si’ has occasioned a moment of reflection for many.

Oceans are clearest measure of climate crisis as they absorb 90% of heat trapped by greenhouse gases.  The Guardian.

The Catholic-founded nonprofit recycling center is not a smelly junkyard in the shadow of a hip neighborhood in Brooklyn, but a processing center fueled by a motto: reducing, reusing and recycling.

Experts say judgment is ‘tipping point’ that opens the door to climate crisis claims for protection.  The Guardian.

Electricity from renewable energy generation in Scotland has reached record levels in the first quarter of 2019, new figures from the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) has shown.  Energy Voice.

Operation Noah is delighted to announce that 20 Christian organisations in the UK – including churches, dioceses, Synods and religious orders – have announced their divestment from fossil fuels as part of the Epiphany Declaration for Fossil Free Churches.

Resolution on future of global carbon markets left to 2020 gathering in Glasgow after extended negotiations prove fruitless, prompting critics to denounce conference as ‘an utter failure’.  The Independent.

Warning of ‘existential threat to civilisation’ as impacts lead to cascade of unstoppable events.  Guardian,  Photo Getty Images.

The UK was the first major economy to commit to net zero emissions, but subsidises fossil fuel production at home and abroad, experts say. ‘We’re in a deep hole over the climate crisis and we need to stop digging,’ warn experts  Guardian.

Groups including Greenpeace, WI and Oxfam call for faster action in letter to all parties.  Guardian.

This article examines the state of play regarding environmental governance and EU exit, following the Scottish Government’s recent announcements concerning the adoption of interim measures.

The Global Catholic Climate Movement (GCCM) is proud to announce the release of the Eco-Parish Guide for Catholic Parishes. This free guide will be a great resource for your parish to bring Laudato Si’ to life.

Energy agency says solar power will drive faster than forecast growth in renewables.  Guardian.

Pace of progress raises hope that fossil fuel companies could lose their domination. Guardian.

Four people have been found guilty of trafficking women from Slovakia to Glasgow and forcing their victims into prostitution and sham marriages.  BBC.

Passionist priest Fr Martin Newell from Birmingham and Sister Katrina Alton of the Sisters of St Joseph of Peace, have both been arrested in recent days as part of the climate change protests in London.  ICN.
 

 On 15 October, the European Investment Bank meets to decide its policy on fossil fuels. The hand of history is on its shoulder. Guardian.

World-renowned environmentalists, scientists, climate change experts and indigenous groups will meet on October 3 in London to create a roadmap for pioneering, country-led solutions to climate change.  The Commonwealth.

Travellers are beginning to turn their backs on air travel over concern for the environment, according to a survey by Swiss bank UBS. BBC.

Vietnam is one of the world's most vulnerable countries to climate change.
It's already having a huge impact on the lives of those in the Mekong Delta, the agricultural heartland of the country and home to 20% of the country's population.

In 2018 - more than 35,000 people were forced to flee their homes every day - that's one every two seconds. BBC.

Today, Wednesday 25th September, the Scottish Parliament voted to support a Climate Bill that commits Scotland to net zero emissions by 2045 and, in a last-minute development, agreed to a 75% reduction of greenhouse emissions by 2030 (on 1990 levels).  Stop Climate Chaos Scotland. (SCCS)

Campaigners from across Scotland's eight Catholic dioceses will gather in St Stephen's Centre in Glasgow on Saturday 21st of September for a 'Day of Reflection' on the environment and climate change.  ICN

For Justice and Peace Scotland, the publication last year of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report on the environment was a watershed moment. ICN

Fight the climate crisis and earn a return of 5% at the same time, plus enjoy a guarantee on your investment.  That’s the offer from an ethical investment scheme that allows people to put money into companies providing African families with access to clean, affordable solar energy.

Sunday, September 1st marks the World Day of Prayer for the care of Creation. When writing 'The Call of Creation' in 2002, the Catholic Bishops of England & Wales said that "care for the environment presents a major challenge for the whole community in the 21st century." The passing of time makes this challenge clearer. It is now an unprecedented ecological crisis.  ICN

Trócaire is gravely concerned about the impact of the catastrophic fires blazing throughout the Amazon forest.

Wildfires raging in the Amazon jungle have plunged Brazil’s largest city into total darkness in the middle of the day. Metro.

Scotland can take the lead on combating climate change if the UK is successful in its bid to host a global meeting of 200 world leaders in Glasgow next year, the head of SCIAF has said. Scottish Catholic Observer.

The scientists said they were shocked by the sheer number of particles they found: more than 10,000 of them per litre in the Arctic.  BBC News.

Civil society campaigners have welcomed the news that the 26th UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) will be held in Glasgow, if the UK/Italy joint bid is successful, and say this is an exciting opportunity for Scotland to showcase progress to date while also stepping up and demonstrate to the world that it is serious about meeting the crucial Paris Agreement commitments.

UN report finds ecosystems never before under such threat and restoration is urgent. Guardian.

On 6 August 1945, the US dropped an atomic bomb called “Little Boy” on Hiroshima in Japan. Three days later a second atomic bomb (“Fat Man”) was dropped on the city of Nagasaki. These are the only times nuclear weapons have been used in war.

There are real obstacles to environmental progress, but we must focus on what we are for, not just what we are against.  Guardian.