CBCP calls on faithful to minimize use of plastic

MANILA, Philippines — The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) yesterday joined calls for the minimal use of single-use plastic and the implementation of other measures to preserve and protect the environment, amid what they called a “continuing ecological crisis.”

In a nine-page pastoral statement titled “An Urgent Call for Ecological Conversion, Hope in the Face of Climate Emergency,” the bishops asked their dioceses to lead actions to revitalize ecology programs.

This is one of the CBCP’s actions paying heed to Pope Francis’ environmental edict “Laudato Si,” which was released in 2015.

“We, in the Philippine Church, are one with the Holy Father in pursuing common agenda to protect our fragile ecosystem from the threat of the continuing ecological crisis. We have the moral imperative to act together decisively in order to save our common home. This is our Christian duty and responsibility,” read the statement, signed by CBCP president Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles.

The CBCP recommended the faithful to start living simply and to refrain from using single-use plastic which greatly contributes to the pollution of the ocean and waterways.

“Live simply, minimize consumption and actively practice ecological awareness and action through integral waste segregation and by minimizing the use of plastic and paper, by eliminating single-use plastics, polystyrene and the like, from our homes and institutions,” the CBCP said.

The bishops also called on the faithful to “participate in efforts to protect and preserve our seas, oceans and fisheries resources.” They also voiced their favor on the protection of watersheds at a time when many parts of the country are still experiencing water shortage.

People were also encouraged to advocate the wise use of freshwater and to establish massive rainwater collection.

They encouraged the public to be active in pushing for bills that would protect the environment such as proposed legislative measures for National Land Use Act, the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act and Ecological Solid Waste Management Act.

‘Turn to renewable energy’

The bishops are also pushing for an immediate transition to safe and affordable energy and to entice homes and institutions such as dioceses, churches, schools and seminaries to shift to solar energy as their source of power. 

Aside from solar, they could also explore and invest in renewable energy such as hydro, wind and geothermal power, and at the same time campaign for the phase out of coal-fired power plants and other plants dependent on fossil fuels, including coal. 

The dioceses and the faithful should also tie up with international organizations for the protection of the environment.

“Network with international bodies to create a groundswell of worldwide pressure powerful enough to convince multinational institutions to lower emissions and to actively engage in environmental actions for the protection of our common home and on behalf of the poor who are most threatened by aggressive but irresponsible industries,” the prelates said.