New Pope Leo XIV: Will He Save the Amazon?

2025-05-10 12:01:55.107

Pope Leo XIV, formerly Bishop Robert Prevost, is seen by many as a beacon of hope for the Amazon region. His two decades spent working in Peru's countryside, coupled with his close ties to interfaith environmental networks and Indigenous organizations, have instilled confidence that he will prioritize the protection of the Amazon and fight against climate change. The Amazon faces numerous threats, including deforestation, illegal mining, and the effects of climate change. Prevost's background and his previous work with the Pontifical Commission for Latin America and the Pan-Amazonian Ecclesial Network position him to effectively address these challenges. Many Catholics believe his experience in Chiclayo, a city near the Amazon, was key to his selection. His commitment to environmental protection is evident in his past actions and statements, including support for Laudato Si', Pope Francis' encyclical on the environment, and his public advocacy for climate action. Indigenous communities and environmental activists express hope that he will be a strong ally in their fight to protect their lands and rights. The upcoming COP30 climate summit in Belem, Brazil, presents an opportunity for Pope Leo XIV to demonstrate his commitment to the Amazon and global climate action.