Pope Francis took part in the Vatican's conference on the role of religions in the achievement for the UN's Sustainable Development Goals for 2030.
Experts and representatives of other religions have traveled to Rome to participate in this event. Cardinal Turkson opened the meeting in the Clementine Hall.
“We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for this audience that you have generously wished to reserve for us this morning.”
The pope stressed the need to protect indigenous people. He said they play a crucial role in the care of the planet .
POPE FRANCIS
“Those living in areas such as the Amazon and Arctic help protect nearly 80 percent of the planet's biodiversity. For these reasons, their voice and concerns should be at the center of the UN's goals for 2030; and at the center of research into new pathways for a sustainable future.”
The pope also said if the damage done to the planet is to be remedied, the following measures must be taken:
Combat inequality, ensure that no one is excluded and all religions are respected. He also said religions have a lot more to contribute.
POPE FRANCIS
“Religions can help us to walk on the path of real integral development, which is the new name for peace.”
This year the Vatican will further explore the importance of the environment in its next Synod dedicated to the Pan-Amazon Region.
