Providence, RI – U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse today released the following statement as the Vatican marks the third anniversary of Pope Francis’ environmental encyclical, Laudato Si:
“At a time when too many American politicians openly deny basic scientific facts about our changing climate, I am grateful for Pope Francis’ international leadership and wisdom.” said Whitehouse. “On this third anniversary of his encyclical, Pope Francis’ calls for truth in public debate and care for our shared environment have inspired people of different faiths across the world to action.”
Pope Francis warned earlier today that there is “a real danger that we will leave future generations only rubble, deserts and refuse.” Last month, the Pope told representatives of the world’s largest oil companies: “Civilization requires energy, but energy use must not destroy civilization.”
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