Overview
- Pope Francis’s 2015 encyclical Laudato Si’ reframed climate change as a moral and social justice issue, influencing the landmark Paris Agreement and global climate policy.
- His advocacy extended to Indigenous rights and ecological justice, with his teachings shaping Catholic social doctrines and inspiring grassroots activism worldwide.
- The Laudato Si’ Movement, active in 140 countries, has trained 20,000 local climate leaders to advance sustainability and climate justice initiatives.
- Despite his influence, surveys reveal limited familiarity with his environmental teachings among global Catholics, highlighting gaps in institutional engagement.
- In his final message, Francis urged Brazilian bishops to lead pre-COP30 commitments, emphasizing his enduring impact on upcoming climate negotiations.