Climate Change, Global Warming, and the Environment

When God finished creating the world, “God saw all that he had made, and it was very good” (Gen. 1:31, NIV). When God created Adam, He “put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it” (Gen. 2:15). Humanity was to take care of the Earth and all the life in it (Gen. 1:28).

Some people argue that it is not especially important to take care of the environment because God will restore the Earth (Rev. 21:1). However, that would be like arguing that we can abuse our bodies with drugs, tobacco, or alcohol because God has promised to restore our bodies (1 Cor. 15:50-54). The beauty of the natural world is a key way in which God communicates to us and we behold His glory. King David wrote, “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork” (Ps. 19:1).

Environmental concerns principally arise from humanity’s poor stewardship of the Earth and its resources. Hundreds of thousands of square miles of oceans fill with plastic, and overfishing decimates its ecosystem. Pollution poisons our air and water and causes suffering and disease. Mass clearing of forests and consumption of fossil fuels damage the environment, with potentially terrible consequences.

Human carelessness, selfishness, and covetousness is the cause of most environmental damage. How can an individual make a difference?

• Eat vegetarian. A vegetarian diet requires 95 percent less land and much less energy to produce. Livestock may eat more than six pounds of grain for every pound of meat they are turned into.
• Be satisfied. Think twice before buying the latest outfit, gadget, or other impulse purchase. When you need to buy, purchase high-quality products that will last.
• Exercise. Much of modern living is sedentary. If you can safely walk or bike to get where you need to go rather than driving a car, then get out on your feet.
• Recycle. Over 100 million mobile phones, filled with potential contaminants like mercury, are disposed of annually. Find a local recycling program for phones, batteries, and other electronics. Compost your unused food. Purchase items used rather than brand new.
• Value efficiency. Take care that you are using the most energy-efficient products possible. They may save you a good bit of money as well.
• Give. The best antidote to consumerism is giving. Give of your money, skills, energy, and passion to bless others, and make the world a more beautiful place.

The earth, for now, remains our home, and though we need to avoid the extremes, we are obligated to take care of it the best we can.

For a deeper understanding of the issue involved, we suggest people go to the following link: https://www.adventist.org/en/information/official-statements/statements/article/go/-/caring-for-the-environment/