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We know there is a direct correlation between the amount of carbon released to the atmosphere and rising global temperatures. And we know that more than 90% of the world’s annual carbon dioxide emissions come from our use of fossil fuels (coal, oil and gas). So to stop global temperatures from rising we have to drastically reduce our use of fossil fuels world-wide. Clean energy is now entering the energy system at an unprecedented rate, so what are the problems? Here are some:
Energy demand continues to rise worldwide.
Some poorer countries are locked into fossil fuel use because of lack of money to develop alternative energy sources.
Unsustainable debt keeps some countries locked into the exploitation of fossil fuels, because this is often one of the few secure sources of income available to them.
Fossil fuel use continues to be subsidised by countries in the Global North.
Decisions at the Climate COPs are made by consensus rather than majority so it is highly unlikely that phasing out fossil fuels will be agreed.
Of concern for the Climate COPs, there is a very large, wealthy fossil fuel lobby group. It has been reported that at last year’s COP, 1 in 25 people was a fossil fuel lobbyist.
We bring the phasing out of fossil fuels closer to home when we consider our own lifestyles and our dependence on them.
(Some of our information sources)Moving away from fossil fuels seems like an enormous thing to have to do, but the Prophet Jeremiah reminds us that nothing is too hard for God.
“Ah, Sovereign LORD, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you. You show love to thousands but bring the punishment for the parents’ sins into the laps of their children after them. Great and mighty God, whose name is the LORD Almighty, great are your purposes and mighty are your deeds. Your eyes are open to the ways of all mankind; you reward each person according to their conduct and as their deeds deserve.
Jeremiah 32:17-19 (NIV)
And writing to the Colossian Christians, Paul was at pains to emphasise the supremacy of Christ over everything and every one in the world.
The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.
Colossians 1:15-17 (NIV)
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Pray that:
Negotiations on fossil fuel transition make real progress, and that solutions can be found that break the impasse.
A formal, binding roadmap for fossil fuel phase-out will be agreed.
Large emitting countries will be ambitious in their commitments and actions, and that they will prioritise justice and equality. 2
The USA, as one of the world’s biggest carbon emitters, will acknowledge and take action to contribute its fair share to a safe future for everyone. 2
Polluting corporations will listen to the calls of affected communities and change their ways. 3
Pray for:
A ‘Just Transition’ from fossil fuels to more sustainable energy sources 1.
For the development and fair sharing of technologies and practices that are sustainable and increase the resilience of communities affected 2.
Changes in behaviour around the world, in individuals, communities and corporations, to reduce energy consumption.
China whose climate targets are still woefully inadequate. 2
Climate finance initiatives that help poorer countries with the transition.
Mitigation against the impact of the fossil fuel lobby in shaping climate negotiations.
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A Prayer for an end of the fossil fuel era | Diocese of Kilmore
Praying for our climate prayer guide (pdf) | Tearfund
We finish this section by using Psalm 23 to remind us that in our consumer-driven world it is actually who provides for all our needs.
The LORD is our shepherd, we lack nothing.
We thank you Father God
He makes us lie down in green pastures,
He leads us beside quiet waters,
He refreshes our souls.
We thank you Father God
He guides us along the right paths
For his name’s sake.
We thank you Father God
Even though we walk
Through the darkest valley,
We will fear no evil,
For you are with us;
Your rod and your staff,
They comfort us.
We thank you Father God
You prepare a table before us
In the presence of our enemies.
You anoint our heads with oil;
Our cup overflows.
We thank you Father God
Surely your goodness and love will follow us
All the days of our lives
And we will dwell in the house of the LORD
Forever.
We thank and praise you Father God
You give us all we need
We rest in you
Psalm 23