Media CenterCRS Calls for Continued Global Collaboration After Historic COP28 Agreement on Fossil Fuels, Pushes for More Funding for Adaptation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Nikki Gamer
Catholic Relief Services
[email protected]
(978) 884-0003

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND, Dec. 14, 2023 – Catholic Relief Services (CRS), the overseas aid agency of the United States Catholic bishops, released the following statement in response to the historic outcome of COP28 in Dubai.

“In Laudate Deum, Pope Francis called us to action, inviting leaders everywhere to rise above self-interest and imagine a future shaped by the common good. While certainly not perfect, the COP28 agreement marks the beginning of our collective journey toward better environmental stewardship. We pray that the global collaboration shown at COP28 continues, especially with regard to decarbonization – and a decisive acceleration of energy transition – increasing funding for climate adaptation and supporting climate justice and equity.

We echo Pope Francis in affirming that a system for financing loss and damage in countries most affected by climate disasters is a “step forward” which “give[s] a new voice and a greater role to developing countries” (Laudate Deum 51). The operationalization of the Loss & Damage Fund stands as a victory for marginalized communities everywhere; however, the amounts pledged by wealthier nations to the fund are a drop-in-the-bucket compared to the significant and growing needs. What’s more, climate finance for adaptation continues to be woefully insufficient, falling far short of what is required to effectively support vulnerable populations. It is imperative that developed nations significantly scale up their commitments to ensure these marginalized communities receive effective support in their fight against climate change and for climate justice and equity.

The United States’ additional commitment of $3 billion in funding for climate adaptation is commendable, and we look forward to that promise being put into action for developing nations.

The teachings of the Church, especially as articulated in Laudato Si’, emphasize our collective responsibility to be stewards of the Earth and champions for justice. As we reflect on the outcomes of COP28, let us renew our commitment to these principles, recognizing that true progress requires more than just agreements; it demands action, compassion and a deep respect for the sanctity of our shared home.”

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Catholic Relief Services is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. The agency alleviates suffering and provides assistance to people in need in more than 100 countries, without regard to race, religion or nationality. CRS’ relief and development work is accomplished through programs of emergency response, HIV, health, agriculture, education, microfinance and peacebuilding. For more information, visit www.crs.org or www.crsespanol.org and follow Catholic Relief Services on social media in English at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube; and in Spanish at: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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