Living Planet Monitor debuts with insights on interconnectedness of people and planet

Rev. Dr Kenneth Mtata, World Council of Churches programme director for Public Witness and Diakonia, introduced the publication, highlighting its potential to inspire dialogue and action on building just and sustainable communities. “Ensuring the right to land, water, and food is vital for communities to thrive,” he said. “The Living Planet Monitor represents a crucial tool in monitoring and responding to these challenges with faith-based solutions.”

The publication, introduced during a webinar attended by global stakeholders, focuses on the land-water-food nexus in East and Southern Africa. It provides an intersectional analysis of governance, resilience, and the impacts of climate change. Athena Peralta, director of the World Council of Churches Commission on Climate Justice and Sustainable Development, emphasized the publication’s role: “The Living Planet Monitor fosters regional and global exchanges, urging leaders and communities to rethink their approach to resource management. This is not just a call to understand the nexus but to act upon it.”

The event featured expert contributions, including Vladimir Chilinya from Zambia, who shared the challenges of balancing water and land resources amidst climate-induced stress, and Susan Smith from the USA, who advocated for regenerative farming practices and sustainable forestry. Their testimonies underscored the critical need for holistic governance and grassroots solutions.

 

 

Highlighting initiatives such as the Ethiopian Orthodox Church’s forest conservation efforts and the Women Collective Kenya’s advocacy for climate justice, the Living Planet Monitor also reflects theological perspectives on environmental stewardship, aiming to inspire faith-based communities worldwide.

“The Living Planet Monitor bridges stories, best practices, and analysis, connecting the dots for a sustainable future,” said Dinesh Suna, World Council of Churches programme executive for Land, Water, and Food, who is also the editor of Living Planet Monitor. Furthermore, he invited contributions to the future editions of the Living Planet Monitor.

The World Council of Churches invites all member churches and faith-based communities to explore the Living Planet Monitor, share its findings, and champion justice-oriented environmental action.

Solene Jetzer, managing editor of the Living Planet Monitor, moderated the webinar.

Access the Living Planet Monitor publication here