Rio +20: Minister pays tribute to ‘vital role of churches’

Over a hundred people gathered last night in Methodist Central Hall, Westminster, to hear from a panel that included CAFOD partner Nanette Antequisa from the Philippines and Caroline Spelman MP, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

The event, organised by CAFOD, Christian Aid, Tearfund and Progressio, inspired lively and passionate debate about how June’s Rio+20 summit can contribute to a greener, fairer world.

Caroline Spelman MP, who will be leading the UK government delegation to Rio+20 gave a commitment that: “The Deputy Prime Minister and I will be going to Rio, seeking a substantive statement of intent, backed up by concrete action. We know the vital role the churches will play, because of your enormous reach into your own communities; and your enormous global reach to communities around the world affected by extreme poverty and climate change.

“As a Christian, I believe that the Earth is the Lord's and everything in it, and we have a responsibility to steward the earth for future generations.”

Chaired by the BBC’s environment correspondent Richard Black, the panel also included CAFOD Director Chris Bain and Dr Steve Waygood of Aviva Investors.

Living out our values

CAFOD Director Chris Bain emphasised the challenge we face: “An outcome of Rio+20 that drives green growth is not enough; we need new rules and systems that will promote growth that is both green and equitable. The challenge is big, but together we can make the difference."

Nanette Antequisa highlighted the influence of global corporations, she said: "There is no doubt that global corporations are among the key drivers of change in the world today. However, the drive for profit had put serious strain to the world’s resources and tension to local culture, politics and livelihoods. Decisions made here in London may cause devastating effect to local livelihoods yet no one here knows what is happening on the ground."

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Questions from the audience touched on issues that are high on the agenda for CAFOD campaigners: food, access to water, corporate accountability, climate change and green energy.

Rt Rev Peter Price, Bishop of Bath and Wells, summed up the role of the churches in the lead-up to the Rio+20 summit and beyond: “The Christian Churches have a responsibility to hold all governments to account to the values of the gospel. The gospel requires us to speak about the world we want to see, and unless we build that vision into what we want the Rio summit to achieve, we are not living out those values. Let's go for it!”