Meeting took place to affirm commitment to Faith, Peace and Climate
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What is fracking?
Fracking – also called hydraulic fracturing – is a process that involves injecting large volumes of water, chemicals and sand at high pressure into underground rock layers to release trapped natural gas. Despite being a technique already used in several countries, it is controversial because it causes environmental and ecological damage, including contamination of groundwater, release of greenhouse gases, induced earthquakes, etc.
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COESUS – Coalition No Fracking Brazil for Water and Life, a campaign by the Arayara International Institute, maintains a partnership with the Catholic Church in defense of life and against the so-called “Gas of Death”. In each city that COESUS visits, the local church is sought to reaffirm the partnership established in defense of the planet and the protection of life.
On September 13, 2022, Não Fracking Brasil had the opportunity to talk to Father Francielio, from São João dos Patos, Maranhão. The priest made himself available to the team to help raise awareness and introduced them to the Bishop of Caxias, Dom Sebastião. The pontiff invited the COESUS team and its representative, Dalcio Costa, to participate in the X Youth Pilgrimage and talk to the young people present about the impacts of fracking at work and in life. The theme of the pilgrimage was “Our Shout is for Work and Life” .
In addition, the team also had the opportunity to talk with the Bishop of Balsas, Dom Valentim. During the meeting, he reinforced the fight against fracking and shared about a project he initiated to plant 8 million trees.
The presence of COESUS in religious communities is extremely important, as awareness of the dangers of fracking and the defense of the environment are closely linked to the values of faith and peace. The church plays a fundamental role in raising the awareness of the faithful and in promoting concrete actions in favor of preserving the planet.
In this sense, the partnership between COESUS and religious leaders strengthens the message of protection for the “common home” and life in all its forms. The awareness of young people, in particular, is essential, as they are the ones who will inherit the future and will face the impacts of decisions made today.
COESUS maintains its commitment to Dom Sebastião, Dom Valentim and many other religious leaders in defense of the environment and against fracking.
