Climate change is not merely an environmental issue. It has far-reaching implications for our efforts to relieve poverty, to establish and maintain peace, and for the economy.
Many climate-change related natural disasters such as more devastating storms, heat waves, droughts, and wildfires, as well as heavy downpours, floods, and mud slides have already caused much human suffering and economic loss. Many plant and animal species cannot survive rising temperatures, and the Earth's natural systems, on which humans depend, are unraveling. Rising sea levels threaten low-lying coastal areas all over the world, including large coastal cities. Many millions of people will be displaced. The threat of climate change to us, our children and grandchildren is immense, and its long-term consequences are unprecedented in human history. The people who suffer first and the most from the impacts of climate change are the poor, people of color, and indigenous people, while the rich people of the world are most responsible. Therefore, climate change is an issue of justice.

Many people are confused about climate change because it is a complex issue and because political and vested interests have spread false doubts about climate science.
In this course you will acquire a basic understanding of the causes of global warming and its impacts on the climate. You will reflect about the importance of applying the principle of the harmony of science and religion to the climate crisis, relating spiritual and ethical teachings to the fundamental challenges it poses. You will learn about the numerous practical actions and changes in lifestyle required to slow the warming. You will discuss the profound economic and social transformation that is vitally important to keep the Earth a livable planet for humans and all life. Perhaps most importantly, you will increase your capacity to engage in public discourse and social action.