At a Crossroads: An Intergenerational and Multireligious Response to the Social and Environmental Crises Report

The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) notes that cities are estimated to generate 80% of all economic growth. OECD studies also show that, for each doubling of population size, the productivity level of a city increases by 2-5% as a result of better labour distribution, education, entrepreneurship, spread of ideas. At the same time, urban sprawl transforms landscapes, affecting ecosystems and biodiversity. According to UN Environment Programme (UNEP), cities are also a major contributor to climate change, as they are responsible for around 75% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

“At a Crossroads: An Intergenerational and Multireligious Response to the Social and Environmental Crisis” was hosted by Religions for Peace and the City Council of Manresa, Spain, on November 28-30, 2022. Timed to coincide with the 500^thanniversary of St. Ignatius of Loyola’s pilgrimage to Manresa, which highlighted cross-sectoral concerns of environment, migration, and social transformation, this international consultation was aimed at addressing the environmental crises facing our planet. “At a Crossroads” was more than a conference on the environment, however, as it’s intergenerational, multireligious and multilateral participation, led by youth and senior faith leaders, from all corners of the world, testified. In addition to focusing discussions on tangible environmental crises –such as lack of equal housing, food and water, healthcare, education, and green space– the consultation enabled the first international and multireligious walk together, by faith leaders and participants, on the Camino Ignaciano -a part of the Camino de Santiago. The outcome was an equally historic youth-led Pact, on the development of resilient, sustainable, safe, and inclusive Cities. The Manresa Pact is also a commitment by Religions for Peace’s Interfaith Youth Network, to document successful environmentally sustainable practices of cities in different corners of the world.