Laudato si’ and carbon trading

Contrary to many reports, this post suggests that Laudato si’ is supportive of the principle of carbon trading, and analyses the reasons behind these misapprehensions which appear to stem from one unfortunately-worded section in the Encyclical.

Background

The Pope’s Encyclical Laudato si’ is a welcome intervention in the climate change debate, highlighting the moral and ethical issues and giving a strong lead to the Catholic faithful and beyond. Apart from climate change deniers, the document was warmly welcomed, and typical of many responses was that of Lord Stern  who noted:

“Moral leadership on climate change from the Pope is particularly important because of the failure of many heads of state and government around the world to show political leadership. Continue reading