Alappuzha bishop calls for greater commitment to environmental protection, sustainable living in Christmas message

Bishop of Alappuzha Diocese, James Raphael Anaparambil, in his Christmas message, called for greater commitment to environmental protection and sustainable living and urged the faithful to adopt eco-friendly practices in daily life and public celebrations.

The diocese had previously decided to reduce carbon emissions. As part of this initiative, a diocesan Green Mission Council began operating to promote environmental awareness and action.

Emphasizing the need to strictly adhere to green protocols, Bishop Anaparambil called in his message for celebrations and public events to be conducted in an environmentally friendly manner. He urged people to make greater use of public transport such as buses and trains, and to walk or cycle as much as possible, especially when going to public places and places of worship.

‘Stay away from plastic’

The bishop suggested that important days such as birthdays, wedding anniversaries and personal achievements be celebrated by planting saplings, depending on the availability of space. He also called for the complete avoidance of plastic, thermocol and similar materials in decorative items used in churches, institutions and homes.

Emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility, Bishop Anaparambil encouraged participation in nature conservation activities carried out by the Church, government and non-governmental organizations. He urged people to properly collect and deliver plastic waste through systems such as Haritha Karma Sena and ensure that church buildings, cemeteries and residential environments are kept clean and plastic-free.

He also emphasized the need to prevent noise pollution during festival celebrations and other public programmes. Addressing the ecological challenges of the region, the bishop called for strengthening the coastal ecosystem by planting windbreaks and mangroves according to soil conditions to protect the coastlines.

Given that public health is also in focus, the bishop recommended limiting the consumption of fast food and junk food and linking sustainable lifestyles to overall well-being.