The challenge of learning to live as one species, in one shared world: Daniel Perell
Daniel Perell, representing the Bahá’í International Community at the United Nations, explains how trust and the recognition of human dignity should shape decisions on climate action. Drawing on real-world examples of environmental initiatives from places like Vanuatu to various regions across Europe, he encourages leaders at COP28 to adopt policies that are both responsible and sustainable. He also reminds global decision-makers that the responsibility to act on climate change is not only an obligation, but also a meaningful privilege.
Emily Echevarria on winding down fossil fuel production to achieve net zero
Emily Echevarria, Director of Climate Action at the Parliament of the World’s Religions, delivers a message for the inaugural Faith Pavilion at COP28 in Dubai in 2023. She emphasizes that a healthy and sustainable environment should be recognized as a fundamental human right. Joining other faith leaders and organizations, she calls on governments to accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels and invest in cleaner, more sustainable energy sources.
Miyuki Hashigu: Empowering vulnerable groups in society to act against climate change
Miyuki Hasghigu, Vice National Women’s Leader of Sokka Gakkai, focuses her efforts on supporting communities most at risk from climate-related natural disasters. Guided by Buddhist teachings that emphasize the ability of each individual to create positive change, her work encourages women to take practical, everyday actions that contribute to addressing climate change.
Hirotsugu Teraski: Buddhism’s perspective on climate change is one of consciousness and action
Hirotsugu Terasaki, Vice President of Soka Gakkai, explains how Buddhist teachings can support and strengthen efforts to address climate change. In Buddhism, every individual is seen as having limitless potential, and this belief encourages people to actively contribute to positive change. This can include influencing political discussions, supporting reforestation projects in regions such as the Amazon, or helping educate others about environmental responsibility. Soka Gakkai works to advance climate action at every level, from international forums like the United Nations to grassroots communities around the world.
The positive impact of religion on the environment: Bhai Sahib Mohinder Singh
Bhai Sahib Mohinder Singh highlights various Sikh environmental projects led by Sikh communities around the world that are contributing to environmental and social change. He shares an encouraging message that faith traditions have both the ability and responsibility to play an active role in addressing climate change and shaping meaningful action for the planet.
“Don’t marginalize us!” Chief Rabbi, Sir Ephraim Mirvis’ call to COP28 leaders
Chief Rabbi Mirvis reflects on what separates good leadership from truly great leadership. Speaking to delegates at COP28 in Dubai, UAE, he calls on world leaders to act with courage, clarity, and decisiveness in addressing the future of the planet. He urges governments and political figures to work alongside global faith leaders, who emphasize the sacred value of every human being and the pressing urgency of the climate crisis.
Chief Rabbi, Sir Ephraim Mirvis: Responsibility for others is the ultimate purpose of Judaism
Chief Rabbi Mirvis expresses his belief that religious leaders play a central role in responding to the climate crisis. He encourages both individuals and communities to take action, highlighting the work of EcoJudaism, which addresses the environmental emergency through education and by turning values into practical change. Efforts range from everyday choices, such as reducing the use of single-use items, to larger environmental initiatives like rewilding and tree planting. Across the UK, Jewish communities are actively contributing to positive environmental impact.
Bhai Sahib Mohinder Singh: Religions are a major player in climate action
Bhai Sahib Mohinder Singh reflects on how religion relates to climate action, speaking from the perspective of the Sikh tradition. He points out that a large majority of the world’s population belongs to faith communities, which gives both religious leaders and their followers significant collective influence. He argues that this shared moral and social power can be mobilized to take meaningful action in addressing climate change.
Changing spiritual consciousness to drive climate action: Sister Jayanti speaks
Sister Jayanti, a senior figure in the Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University, highlights the need for a shift in human consciousness as a foundation for effective climate action. She emphasizes the importance of cultivating spiritual values such as compassion and simplicity as part of the response to the environmental crisis. She also calls on governments, as representatives of global populations, to move beyond narrow national interests and make decisions that prioritize the well-being of the planet and future generations. The Brahma Kumaris have been involved in faith-inspired environmental initiatives for over 25 years, including solar energy projects like “India One,” which provides renewable energy to tens of thousands of people.