Zoran Turza speaks to Croatian Radio about the Christian perspective on environmental protection

Zoran Turza, PhD, from the Catholic University of Croatia, appeared on Croatian Radio’s programme “Susret u dijalogu” (Encounter in Dialogue), dedicated to the Christian perspective on environmental protection and responsibility towards the created world. Turza, who also leads the CRO Laudato si’ project, spoke about the need to change our relationship with nature and to give environmental issues a more prominent place in the life of the Church.

Speaking about humanity’s relationship with the environment, he warned that nature is often viewed today as an unlimited resource that can be exploited without responsibility. He stressed the need for a change in mindset and greater awareness of the consequences our actions have on the environment.

“Care for the created world concerns every Christian believer and can by no means be treated as a secondary issue that we remember only on special occasions,” Turza emphasized.

He also discussed ecotheology, which gained particular prominence in Church teaching with Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical “Laudato si’”. Although a strong theological framework exists, he noted that its principles have yet to be sufficiently put into practice at the level of dioceses and parishes, as well as among the faithful.

The discussion also addressed recent cases of improper hazardous waste disposal in Croatia. As a positive example of a timely response by the Church, Turza highlighted the statement issued by Marko Medo, Bishop of Gospić-Senj, emphasizing the importance of responding to issues that directly affect the lives and dignity of citizens.

Also participating in the programme was Carmelite friar Ivan Pleše, Secretary of the Commission for Ecumenism and Dialogue of the Archdiocese of Zagreb. The discussion was hosted by editor and presenter Robert Rogina. The full programme is available in the Croatian Radio audio archive.