"Pope Francis wants you to turn off the A/C.

That’s one of the implications of Francis’ extraordinary recent statement about the environment, which firmly blames humans for global warming and laments the impact of technology and capitalism on what the pope calls “sister Earth.” Released shortly before the pope’s U.S. visit, the 184-page document is the most sweeping and high-profile religious declaration about climate change and a call for radical reform in all sectors of society.

The pope’s statement, which takes the form of a teaching document called an encyclical, could influence the thinking and habits of the world’s 1.2 billion Catholics. But its impact won’t necessarily end there. The encyclical could well affect high-stakes climate talks this December, when 200 countries hope to finalize a treaty to cut pollution linked to climate change. And some experts say Francis’ words could help shift attitudes well beyond his own flock."

Traci Watson reports for USA TODAY September 17, 2015. [2]

SEE ALSO:

"Pope Heads to Climate Talks as Rare Word -- Optimism -- Surfaces" (Bloomberg) [3]

"Climate Change Deniers Criticize Pope Ahead of Philadelphia Visit" (StateImpact Pennsylvania) [4]