The Joint Appeal Faith and Science: Towards COP26 was launched at the Vatican on 4 October 2021.
The Joint Appeal called on world leaders to raise their ambition and reach net zero carbon emissions as soon as possible. It also committed the religious leaders from the 10 different faith traditions who signed to take practical action to protect the planet and to bring about a change of heart among their members in the way we all relate to the earth and to other people.
The Joint Appeal was received by Alok Sharma, the COP26 President and by the Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Luigi Di Maio. Alok Sharma took the Appeal to COP26 in Glasgow in November 2021 calling for the message of the Appeal to be made known as widely as possible, citing the power and influence that faith leaders have to combat climate change and safeguard the planet. “This is a day” he said, “that shows how we can and will turn the tide in climate change and how the head and the heart can work together to do just that.”
There was widespread enthusiasm that this Dialogue between faith leaders and scientists should continue beyond the launch of the Appeal. This virtual meeting offers the opportunity to:
- critically reflect on COP26 and how faith leaders and scientists can participate in the delivery of the Glasgow Climate Pact
- be accountable for actions taken since the Appeal and fulfilling the commitments made
- discuss what more can be done to promote the message of the Appeal and its impact
- reflect on the value and nature of continuing dialogue between faith leaders and scientists in the run up to COP27
In partnership with The British Embassy to the Holy See
Wilton Park reference number: WP2044V
