Why we should care about the environment and climate debt solutions

This piece was written by Chimwemwe Sakunda Ndhlovu – Caritas Malawi National Coordinator 

Climate change is a global issue demanding collective action, and Catholics are called to deeply care for creation. The Catholic faith, rooted in teachings that God entrusted humanity with the Earth, emphasises our responsibility to protect it. In Laudato Si, Pope Francis highlights the urgency of environmental stewardship, noting that climate degradation harms the planet and disproportionately impacts the poor. He further noted that humans are both the saviours and destructors of the earth, and the choice remains with us.  

Biblical teachings, in Genesis, affirm humans as stewards of Earth, with a duty to take care of the earth and preserve it for future generations. Catholics are therefore called to respect creation, as an expression of love for God and all life, and work toward the common good.  

Addressing climate change, including Loss and Damage, also aligns with Catholic Social Teaching by fostering a sustainable and just environment and supporting those most affected, who are also often the least responsible for emissions that destroys the environment. For instance, Africa accounts for only 3.8% of the emissions, in contrast to 23% in China, 19% in the US, and 13% in the EU and yet it suffers the most effects.  

Environmental advocacy during COPs which includes supporting Loss and Damage financing reflect Catholic values - preferential option for the poor, justice and solidarity. However, debt presents a significant barrier. Many nations in the Global South including Malawi, facing severe climate impacts, incur high levels of debt to cover losses and damages. This debt hinders investment in public infrastructure, climate adaptation, health, and education, locking nations into a cycle of poverty and dependency as high interest borrowing costs rises. 

Wealthier, industrialised nations bear much of the responsibility for the climate crisis and must help address the inequities faced by less-contributing, heavily impacted countries. Restructuring debt is crucial to fairly addressing the climate crisis, reducing burdens on affected countries, and fostering a cooperative approach to climate resilience. 

This leaves Caritas Malawi and SCIAF with no option other than to continuously engage in advocacy to make the world a better place – COP being one of the platforms.