Climate Change, Energy and Justice: A Catholic Approach

Diocese of Des Moines, IA

Teaming up with the National Catholic Rural Life Conference-long recognized as a leader in the contributions of farmers and ranchers in the fight against environmental harm (including climate change)-the Diocese of Des Moines will work to raise awareness and invite common action by Catholics in the diocese on global climate change and related energy issues.

Their education efforts will focus on understanding Iowa’s contributions to greenhouse gas emissions through energy use and opportunities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through agricultural products (carbon sequestration and opportunities for biofuels) and reducing energy use in parishes and Catholic homes. Advocacy efforts will be to encourage legislative advocacy on climate change policy, renewable energy, and energy efficiency and conservation.

They will coordinate their efforts with the Iowa Interfaith Energy and Climate Campaign and the diocesan building commissions.