Brief summary of presentation of information made

A key takeaway from this meeting was the role that our religious convictions play in stewarding the environment. Sadvhi Bhagawati Saraswati, Secretary-General of the Global Interfaith WASH Alliance, reminded participants that our respective faiths often call us to “Liv[e] in harmony and balance with all creatures”. This faithful desire for stewardship often drives faith-based organizations, which Saraswati described as “rich institutions providing socio-economic support to all people everywhere” and urged the continuance of this essential work.

Women have always played a significant role in faith and religion throughout history, particularly in religious fellowship. The panel encourages using this aspect of many religious traditions to their advantage as a means to promote climate action in their congregations. Women can be agents of change, teaching and fulfilling practical actions in their communities that are sustainable and work towards climate justice. For example, Patriciah Roy Akullo, ACT Uganda Forum Coordinator, described religious actors who set up irrigation systems around their residences to demonstrate to their congregation how practical action can be taken. Akullo also advocated for teaching women climate adaptive farming techniques which would allow them to provide for their families as a source of both food and income.

Young Ecuadorian Indigenous Advocate, Helena Gualinga of the Kichwa Sarayaku community, spoke to the needs of the indigenous communities and the actions they are taking to combat climate injustice. Gualinga advocated against the use of harmful extraction practices, particularly those that occur on indigenous land and is working to ensure that indigenous territories can remain untouched by corporate and governmental actors. Religious actors have long had a complicated relationship with indigenous communities, and she emphasized that more must be done to correct past and continued abuses by religious communities. Ultimately, she emphasized the need for practical activism for indigenous communities that goes beyond vocalizing support in order to bring about real change.

The Secretary General of the Global Interfaith WASH Alliance called for a new and expanded definition of peace, one that called for ‘refrain[ing] from killing each other through polluted air, water, and soil”. This sentiment was echoed by many members of the panel, alongside an emphasis on collective action. Jennifer Heys, of Global Affairs Canada, stated that “effective and sustainable climate action needs all of us”.

Participants:

• Shahin Ashraf MBE – Moderator, Head of Global Advocacy, Islamic Relief Worldwide
• Jennifer Heys - Head of Cooperation in the Eastern Caribbean for Global Affairs Canada
• Helena Gualinga- Young Ecuadorian Indigenous Advocate
• Patriciah Roy Akullo - ACT Uganda Forum Coordinator
• Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati - PhD, Secretary-General of the Global Interfaith WASH Alliance
• Professor Patricia Kameri-Mbote, UNEP Director - Law Division

What information shared in this meeting is of significance to The Salvation Army and why?

As a Christian organization, the Salvation Army feels a biblical calling to care for the environment that God has entrusted us with, as well as meet the physical needs of those impacted by climate change. There are key takeaways from this meeting that demonstrate opportunity for practical actions within our organization.

What is The Salvation Army currently doing to address the UN Sustainable Development Goals addressed in this meeting?

The Salvation Army runs water, sanitation, and hygiene programmes in many areas throughout the 132 countries in which we serve, creating a positive socio-economic impact on those in need. Examples of this work is the installation of irrigation systems, boreholes, wells, and latrine systems in schools which allow children to maintain focus in school. We are also advocates for female empowerment and gender equity, with initiatives such as our International Social Justice Girls Group that fosters skills and encourage girls to advocate on behalf of those affected by social justice issues within their territory.

What opportunities are there for The Salvation Army to create or further develop the work in this area?

There are always opportunities to explore implementation of hands-on climate work in our corps, as well as opportunities for greener and cleaner ways of working.

Web links for more information

Read the Salvation Army’s International Position Statement on Caring for the Environment

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