Faith leaders call on government to 'make polluters pay' ahead of COP30 as Quakers co-host climate vigil
As the UK prepares for crucial climate finance talks in the run-up to COP30, faith leaders have urged the government to make polluters and the ultra-wealthy pay for the damage caused by climate change.
In a joint letter to Chancellor Rachel Reeves and former Foreign Secretary David Lammy, faith groups including Quakers in Britain called for new taxes on fossil fuel companies and extremely wealthy individuals.
They say these measures are vital to fund the clean energy transition and support climate-vulnerable communities in the UK and around the world.
[QUOTE-START]
The climate crisis is a crisis of justice
- Paul Parker
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The letter, coordinated by Faith for the Climate, was signed by representatives from Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, Sikh, and Buddhist communities including former Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams and Trupti Patel, president of the Hindu Forum of Britain.
"Climate breakdown is also a cost-of-living crisis," the letter states. "Making polluters pay would raise billions. It could lower energy bills, speed up clean energy, and help those facing disaster."
Proposals include a Climate Damages Tax, a wealth tax on assets over £10 million, and the removal of subsidies for oil and gas companies.
Paul Parker, recording clerk for Quakers in Britain, said: "Quakers believe there is something of God in everyone, and that leads us to care deeply for each other and for the Earth we share.
"The climate crisis is a crisis of justice. Our faith calls us to act for a fairer world, one where those most responsible for harm take responsibility, and those most affected are supported."
The call comes days before a multifaith climate vigil in central London on Saturday, 20 September, jointly hosted by Quakers in Britain and Faith for the Climate.
Held at 11.30am in Cavendish Square Gardens, the vigil will include prayers, short reflections from different faith leaders, and a period of silence led by Quakers.
It takes place just before the Make Them Pay climate justice demonstration at 12pm. Speakers from multiple religions will reflect on justice, fairness and care for the Earth.
Organisers hope the event sends a strong signal to government ahead of COP30: that faith communities are united in demanding bold action to address climate injustice.