Pope Francis has taken another step towards his green vision for the Vatican by inaugurating a new solar panel roof at the Vatican Museum. The installation, carried out by ACEA, is part of the Pope’s plan to transition Vatican City to run entirely on renewable energy. The solar panels were installed in the Courtyard of the Corazze entrance in just six months, despite the challenges of integrating the infrastructure into an already built-up area.
The Pope outlined his commitment to sustainability in his ‘Brother Sun’ letter in June, emphasizing the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving climate neutrality. By installing solar panels on a Vatican-owned property outside Rome, the power generated could meet all of Vatican City’s energy needs. The pontiff has been vocal about his concern for the climate crisis, highlighting the scientific consensus on rising global temperatures and extreme weather events.
In July 2022, the Vatican formally joined the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, solidifying its commitment to addressing climate change on a global scale. Vatican City is on track to become one of just eight countries in the world to generate 100% of its electricity from renewable sources, setting an example for other nations to follow. Salvatore Farina from the Vatican City State Administration emphasized that they are not only meeting their international commitments but also reporting on their progress at COP 29. The Vatican’s green initiatives are not only fulfilling their obligations but are also demonstrating leadership in the fight against climate change.
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