In July, our planet will reach Earth Overshoot Day, the point at which humanity’s demand for natural resources exceeds what the Earth can regenerate within the same year, effectively placing us in ecological “debt” and further accelerating the climate crisis. In Europe, however, this threshold was already reached on 3 May.

This imbalance is also profoundly unequal: the wealthiest segments of the global population, particularly in Europe, are responsible for the majority of emissions and global warming, while those who consume the least resources are often those most affected by the impacts of the climate crisis. The consequences, therefore, are not only environmental but also deeply linked to social justice.

Through a statement to which Pax Christi International also contributed, the European Laudato Si’ Alliance (ELSiA) calls for a shift in lifestyles and consumption patterns, inviting in particular European ecclesial institutions to lead by example.

Photo and credit: “Young woman gardening in urban garden, concept sustainability and authentic lifestyle”, by Sururu (Adobe Stock)/ 412498727