In the heart of Rome, the smallest nation in the world is about to take a giant step towards sustainability. Pope Francis has announced a bold plan to transform the Holy See into a clean energy model, demonstrating that even the oldest institutions can drive change.
The Pontiff's announcement
Pope Francis recently published a motu proprio entitled “Brother Sun”, an official document which outlines the Holy See's plans to transition to 100% solar energy. This move is part of a broader commitment by the Catholic Church towards climate change.
The commitment follows a "strategic line" on environmental issues rather consolidated by the Vatican. And from unsuspecting times:
- In 1971, Pope Paul VI expressed concern about the exploitation of nature.
- 2007, below Pope Benedict XVI, the Holy See announced its intention to become the first “carbon neutral state”.
- In 2008 the first 2.400 solar panels were installed in the Vatican. (Incidentally: right on the roof of the Paul VI Hall).
Bergoglio's commitment to the environment
Since the beginning of his papacy in 2013, Pope Francis has placed particular emphasis on environmental issues.
- In 2015, published the encyclical “Laudato Si'”. A fundamental document on caring for the environment based on scientific research.
- 2016, the Holy See has updated its waste recycling system.
- In 2022, supported the efforts of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
- 2023, the Vatican has adopted electric cars (in collaboration with Volkswagen).
The new solar project of the Holy See
“Fratello Sole” involves the construction of a solar plant in the extraterritorial area of Santa Maria di Galeria. This plant will power the Vatican radio station and provide energy to the entire Vatican City (an estimated population of approximately 825 people).
Small note. As a signatory to the 1992 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Holy See is committed to reducing its carbon footprint. A more symbolic value than anything else, because the Vatican's carbon emissions (about 0,0000443% of global emissions in 2022) are very few.
Future perspectives
There is a need to make a transition towards a sustainable development model that reduces greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere, setting the objective of climate neutrality. Humanity has the technological means to address this environmental transformation and its pernicious ethical, social, economic and political consequences. And, among these, solar energy plays a key role.
Jorge bergoglio
This project represents an important step forward for the Holy See in the fight against climate change. And precisely because of its symbolic value it could serve as an example for other states and institutions, demonstrating that it is possible to combine tradition and innovation in the search for sustainable solutions.
Holy See, green headquarters
The Holy See's initiative to switch to 100% solar energy is a clear signal of the Catholic Church's commitment to environmental sustainability. This project will not significantly reduce the global carbon footprint, but it will be a powerful message to the world about the importance and feasibility of transitioning to renewable energy. If we also include the position of the Holy See on artificial intelligence, a "renewed" role of the Church emerges as a guide even through the unknowns of the near future.
One last thing. With so many lawyers around and the Vatican involved, let me play devil's advocate and launch a small, playful provocation. Why, given that nuclear power is "the cleanest and safest form of energy" (cit.), has the Vatican not set a good example with a small power plant?
Be good in the comments. Peace and love!
