Abstract

RESEARCH OBJECTIVE: The main aim of this article is to analyse Pope Francis’s assessment of the current environmental crisis, as set out in his encyclical Laudato si’, in the context of the media’s environmental responsibility.

THE RESEARCH PROBLEM AND METHODS: The research focus of this article is to analyse the contemporary threats outlined by Pope Francis in his encyclical Laudato si’ and to identify the measures proposed by the Pope that would help to overcome the ecological and social crisis. Particular attention has been paid to the role of traditional and digital media in shaping environmental awareness and fostering responsibility for the natural environment. The study utilised an analysis of source materials, a review of the relevant literature, and Catholic Church documents concerning social and environmental issues. The primary research source was the encyclical Laudato si’.

THE PROCESS OF ARGUMENTATION: The introduction outlines the origins of the contemporary environmental debate and situates the encyclical Laudato si’ within the tradition of Catholic social teaching. It then analyses Pope Francis’s assessment of the environmental crisis, with particular attention to the role of the media in reinforcing consumerist attitudes and their potential for shaping environmental awareness. The discussion concludes with an examination of the concept of integral ecology and an indication of the directions of cultural change that lead to the development of responsibility for the environment and the common good (‘a culture of love’).

RESEARCH RESULTS: In his encyclical Laudato si’, Pope Francis recognises the media as a key player sharing responsibility for shaping public environmental awareness and for how contemporary society perceives these issues. The media can effectively support the implementation of the principles of integral ecology through education, by promoting environmentally friendly attitudes, and by encouraging the public to take action to protect the environment and the common good.

CONCLUSIONS, INNOVATIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS: Pope Francis regards the media as a key player that shares responsibility for shaping the environmental awareness of modern societies. It can act both as a factor exacerbating the ecological crisis (by promoting consumerism and superficial reporting) and as a tool supporting the development of pro-environmental attitudes. Linking media responsibility to the concept of integral ecology encompasses environmental, social and ethical dimensions.