Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain, November 13, 2025 – The Integral Ecology Department of the Archdiocese of Barcelona has recently brought to light three significant initiatives, each underscoring its profound commitment to fostering a more just and fraternal global community. These actions are deeply rooted in the principles of ‘integral ecology’ as articulated in the encyclical Laudato Si’, advocating for a holistic approach to environmental and social justice.
Three Pillars of Commitment to Integral Ecology
The department’s recent endeavors encompass a diverse range of activities, from academic-religious dialogues to urgent calls for climate action on the international stage. These initiatives collectively aim to bridge the gap between spiritual commitments and tangible actions for sustainability and social equity.
1. Roundtable: “Sustainability, University, and Religions”
A pivotal event organized by the department was a roundtable discussion titled “Sustainability, University, and Religions.” This gathering successfully united academic institutions and religious communities, establishing a crucial platform for dialogue. The primary objective was to forge connections between academic knowledge and spiritual obligations towards environmental stewardship and universal fraternity. This inaugural meeting is intended to be the genesis of an ongoing forum, facilitating continuous collaboration between higher education and faith-based organizations in their shared pursuit of sustainability. The department emphasized that this roundtable marks “the starting point of a new academic and spiritual space.”
2. Statement Ahead of COP30: “Climate Justice, Moral Urgency”
In anticipation of the upcoming climate summit, COP30, scheduled to take place in Belém, Brazil, the Integral Ecology Department has disseminated a joint document. This statement, developed in collaboration with the Spanish Episcopal Conference (CEE) and other prominent Catholic and civil organizations, delivers a stark message: the climate crisis is no longer a distant threat but a present reality. The document passionately advocates for three fundamental pillars of justice: genuine climate action, an equitable transition towards sustainable practices, and financial systems that genuinely serve the common good. The department highlighted this as a “Message before COP30,” urging immediate and decisive action.
3. Press Release: “The Moral Revolution for Climate”
Further amplifying its voice on the global climate agenda, the department issued a press release titled “The Moral Revolution for Climate.” This statement underscores that COP30 represents a critical juncture for demanding a profound moral revolution in how humanity interacts with the Earth and its most vulnerable populations. It calls upon governments worldwide to move beyond empty promises and to enact binding measures that ensure environmental protection and social justice. The press release powerfully asserts that “the cry of the Earth and the cry of the poor constitute a single cry,” thereby reinforcing the notion that integral ecology is not merely an environmental concern but an inseparable issue of social justice. The department noted this as a press release from “Ecclesiastical and civil organizations demand a ‘Moral Revolution’ before COP30.”
Invitation to Further Engagement
The Integral Ecology Department encourages all interested parties to consult the complete versions of these documents for a more comprehensive understanding of their positions and proposals. These initiatives reflect a holistic vision where ecological concerns are inextricably linked with social, economic, and ethical dimensions, echoing the core tenets of integral ecology.
