Environmental Protection is Shared Responsibility, says Caritas Official as Bangladesh Marks Creation Sunday

Environmental protection is a shared human and moral responsibility, said Dr. Arook Toppo, regional director of Caritas Rajshahi Region, as staff members observed Creation Season Sunday on September 6.

The observance focused on care for creation and practical steps to protect the environment. Staff members reflected on humanity’s responsibility toward nature in the light of teachings from the Bible, the Qur’an and other religious traditions.

“Environmental protection is not the sole responsibility of any particular religion or community; it is a shared human and moral responsibility,” Toppo said.

He stressed the importance of cooperation among people of different faiths in responding to environmental challenges.

“Through the collective efforts of people from different faiths, including Hindus, Muslims, and Christians, it is possible to bring about positive change in environmental conservation,” he said.

Participants made personal commitments to adopt more environmentally responsible practices, including reducing plastic use and choosing alternatives, planting and caring for at least one tree, conserving water and electricity, and keeping their surroundings clean.

They also took part in tree planting and a cleanliness campaign on the Caritas Rajshahi Region campus.

The observance drew on Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical Laudato Si’, which calls for greater care for the Earth, described as humanity’s common home. The document has become an important reference for Catholic environmental initiatives worldwide.

Caritas Rajshahi Region said the Creation Season observance should not be limited to a single day or program but should encourage sustained environmental responsibility throughout the year.

Rajshahi, in northwestern Bangladesh, is one of the country’s major urban centers and an important agricultural region. The area faces environmental concerns that make conservation and responsible use of natural resources significant for local communities.

The participants emphasized that environmental action can begin with ordinary choices at home, in neighborhoods and workplaces.

The Creation Season activities concluded with a renewed commitment among the staff to incorporate environmentally responsible practices into their daily lives and work.