When Pope Francis stepped onto the world stage in 2013, few expected him to become a leading voice in environmental advocacy. Yet, by the time of his passing in April 2025, he had earned the moniker “the Green Pope.” His commitment to environmental issues wasn’t just symbolic; it was deeply rooted in his faith and actions.
Francis’s approach combined spiritual teachings with a call to action on climate change, urging the world to see environmental stewardship as a moral imperative. His 2015 encyclical, Laudato Si’, became a cornerstone of this mission, influencing both religious and secular communities.
This article explores how Pope Francis transformed the Vatican into a hub of environmental activism and became a global icon for ecological responsibility.
Choosing the Name Francis: A Symbolic Start
Upon his election, Jorge Mario Bergoglio chose the name Francis, honoring Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of ecology. This choice signaled his dedication to humility, poverty, and care for creation.
Saint Francis’s reverence for nature resonated with the new pope’s vision of a Church that embraces environmental stewardship. By aligning himself with this legacy, Pope Francis set the tone for a papacy deeply concerned with ecological issues.
This symbolic act was the first of many steps that would define his role as an environmental leader on the global stage.
Laudato Si’: A Revolutionary Encyclical
In 2015, Pope Francis released Laudato Si’, an encyclical that framed environmental degradation as a moral and spiritual crisis. He emphasized the interconnectedness of all creation and the responsibility of humans to protect the planet.
The document called for a “cultural revolution” to combat consumerism and environmental neglect, urging collective action to address climate change. It highlighted the disproportionate impact of environmental issues on the poor and marginalized.Laudato Si’ was groundbreaking, marking the first time a pope addressed environmental concerns so directly, influencing global discourse and policy.
Influencing Global Climate Policy
Pope Francis’s environmental advocacy extended beyond the Church, impacting international climate policy. His moral leadership played a role in shaping discussions leading up to the 2015 Paris Agreement.
By framing climate change as a moral issue, he appealed to a broad audience, including policymakers and secular leaders. His influence helped galvanize support for more ambitious climate goals and commitments.
Francis’s engagement with global leaders underscored the Vatican’s role in promoting environmental responsibility on the world stage.
Engaging the Faithful: Grassroots Environmentalism
Pope Francis’s message resonated with Catholics worldwide, inspiring grassroots environmental movements within the Church. Initiatives like the Laudato Si’ Movement mobilized communities to take action on climate issues.
Parishes and dioceses implemented sustainable practices, from energy conservation to ecological education programs. These efforts reflected the pope’s call for an “integral ecology” that respects both people and the planet.
By empowering the faithful to become environmental stewards, Francis fostered a culture of ecological awareness within the Church.
Challenging the Status Quo: Confronting Power Structures
Pope Francis didn’t shy away from challenging powerful interests contributing to environmental degradation. He criticized the “technocratic paradigm” and the pursuit of profit at the expense of the planet.
In meetings with oil executives and political leaders, he urged a transition to renewable energy and sustainable practices. His bold stance highlighted the ethical dimensions of environmental decisions.
By confronting entrenched systems, Francis emphasized the need for systemic change to address the ecological crisis.
Laudate Deum: A Renewed Call to Action
In 2023, Pope Francis released Laudate Deum, a follow-up to Laudato Si’, reiterating the urgency of addressing climate change. He condemned climate change denial and called for decisive action to protect the planet.
The document emphasized the moral responsibility of individuals and nations to combat environmental degradation. It served as a reminder that previous efforts were insufficient and that more needed to be doneLaudate Deum reinforced Francis’s commitment to environmental issues and his role as a persistent advocate for ecological justice.
A Legacy of Environmental Advocacy
Pope Francis’s environmental legacy is marked by his integration of ecological concerns into the Church’s teachings and his influence on global climate discourse. His efforts inspired both religious and secular communities to view environmental stewardship as a moral imperative.
Through his writings, speeches, and actions, he elevated the conversation around climate change, emphasizing its impact on the poor and the need for collective responsibility.
Francis’s papacy redefined the role of religious leadership in addressing environmental challenges, leaving a lasting impact on the world.
Tributes and Continuing Influence
Following his death in April 2025, tributes poured in from around the globe, highlighting Pope Francis’s environmental contributions. Figures like Leonardo DiCaprio praised his moral leadership and dedication to ecological issues.
His teachings continue to influence environmental movements, with many looking to his writings for guidance on sustainable living and climate action.
The ongoing work of organizations inspired by his message ensures that his environmental advocacy remains a vital force in the fight against climate change.
The Enduring Impact of the Green Pope
Pope Francis didn’t just dip a toe into the climate conversation, he cannonballed in, rosary beads and all. By placing creation care at the center of his papacy, he turned environmentalism into a moral call-to-action, not just a talking point. And the world, religious or not, listened.
He proved that faith and science could sit at the same table, and maybe even change the menu. From encyclicals to summits, his influence touched hearts and policy rooms alike. He wasn’t just preaching to the choir; he was remixing the hymn sheet.
Even in passing, Pope Francis remains a force of nature, literally and spiritually.
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