Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Rome (Agenzia Fides) - June 5 is World Environment Day and Christians on 3 continents are calling for the earth to be protected.
Climate change is a serious threat to the life and means of subsistence of the most vulnerable peoples. It also thwarts efforts and commitment to reducing poverty. The World Health Organisation estimates that every year 150,000 people die due to climatic disasters.
Committed Churches in the poorest communities in the three continents most affected by climate change have appealed for urgent government intervention. The Christian groups highlight the devastating impact of climate change in developing countries.
In Honduras unstable climate has negative repercussions on the people. Ever scarcer rainfall prolongs ever more severe drought. In Ethiopia about 11 million people suffer from drought in the Horn of Africa mainly because of four years without rain. In Bangladesh agriculture is destroyed by sea waves on swampland on the west coast. Loss of harvests and invested capital increases not only the risk of famine but also the state of poverty of the families.
Certain communities report that flooding and drought are ever more frequent. Forecasts say poorer areas will suffer most in the future.
Christians have the important responsibility to speak for the poor, so the situation will not worsen in the future. (AP) (3/6/2006 Agenzia Fides; Righe:26; Parole:294)
