In a powerful call to action, the global Ignatian family is mobilising to influence the upcoming COP30 climate summit with a united voice for ecological transformation. With leaders set to convene in Brazil this November to negotiate critical climate commitments, the period leading up to the event—especially August and September—is crucial for shaping national climate pledges (Nationally Determined Contributions, or NDCs).
Fr Roberto Jaramillo SJ, Director of the Secretariat for Social Justice and Ecology (SJES) of the Society of Jesus, emphasised the impact religious communities can have: “There are nearly 800,000 men and women in religious life worldwide. Imagine the power of multiplying this by encouraging our contacts, friends, collaborators, family, allies, and volunteers to join this cause.”
The Religious Life for Climate Justice Mechanism has outlined key demands to urge governments worldwide:
- Cancel the debts of poor countries, as unjust and unpayable debts should not compromise resources for climate adaptation and mitigation efforts.
- Strengthen the Loss and Damage Fund (FRLD) by allocating sufficient resources to tackle the severe effects of climate change.
- Set clear targets for a fair energy transition that aims to reduce CO₂ emissions, considering historical responsibilities, respecting human rights—especially Indigenous rights, valuing and protecting nature, and prioritising sustainable livelihoods over profit-driven models.
- Set clear goals to develop a global food system based on food sovereignty and agroecological practices, one that promotes culturally adapted methods for production, transformation, distribution, and food consumption.
Members of the Ignatian community and their extended networks are encouraged to personally endorse the statement or do so on behalf of their institutions. Participants are also urged to share this campaign broadly, inviting friends, family, colleagues, ministries, and partners to join the movement.
This global call for ecological justice reflects a growing commitment among religious groups to influence climate policy and advocate for vulnerable populations often most affected by environmental degradation.
To sign the statement, click here. For more information on the Religious Life for Climate Justice Campaign, visit the campaign’s official platform. here.
