Why does the Church consider care for nature a moral duty?

Human beings are responsible for God’s creation. Photo: vestisemey

The Church views care for nature as a profound spiritual and moral obligation of every person. Nature is God’s creation, entrusted to humanity for stewardship and transformation. According to the teaching of the Bible, the human being is not an all-powerful master of the earth; the “dominion” mentioned in Genesis is understood as responsibility, not as a license to destroy or exploit natural resources without restraint.

Orthodox theologians – and even contemporary Church councils – note that ecological problems are closely connected to humanity’s spiritual crisis. Egoism and the culture of consumption lead to the destruction of nature, and therefore technical or economic measures alone are not enough. Inner motivation is needed: the cultivation of a soul striving for transfiguration and a conscious, responsible attitude toward the world. Environmental actions without a moral and spiritual foundation are ultimately meaningless.

The Orthodox approach to ecology is unique because it unites ethics, spirituality, and practical action. The Church has always emphasized that care for the environment is not only a responsibility toward nature, but also toward society, one’s own conscience, and God. Therefore, for us, Orthodox ecology is not merely adherence to principles of rational consumption or concern for conservation, but a natural continuation of Christian life – an expression of love for God, His creation, and our neighbor.

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