“The world’s faith communities are alarmed over the accelerating climate emergency that poses an existential threat to life,” reads the statement. “In our diversity of traditions, we share a common calling to heed the cries of the vulnerable, coming generations, and Mother Earth.”
The statement notes that human economic activity is behind the climate crisis.
“Humanity holds the future in her hands,” reads the statement. “May we act accordingly, in line with science, responsibly, and with urgency.”
Fossil fuels must be phased out now, the statement urges. “A just transition must be pursued such that no community and no worker is left behind,” the statement reads. “There is absolutely no room for new extraction of fossil fuels.”
The faith-based groups urge nations to rise above business and national interests, differences, and conflicts, and commit to a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty.
“While we welcome the decision at COP28 to operationalize the Loss and Damage Fund, we are disappointed by the pledges which are a pittance,” reads the text. “We underline that rich and industrialized nations have a moral responsibility to pay for mitigation and adaptation.”
The drastic mitigation of emissions cannot be put on hold, the statement urges, and the experiences of Indigenous people and women must be taken into account. “We cannot and must not sell away our children’s future for financial gain and in the name of development,” reads the message. “There is no time to lose: it is our moral obligation to act now and with greater aspiration to protect the gift of life on Earth.”
Read the full statement
The Interfaith Talanoa Dialogue Call to COP28 was handed to the COP28 presidency, specifically through Ahmed Al Ghardaqa, Lead of the COP28 Interfaith Initiative, who received it on behalf of the presidency team. Photo: WCC
Source
Image Source
Tags: COP 28 Faith Talanoa Handover, COP28 Talanoa Dialogue
