Alappuzha Diocese Bishop James Raphael Anaparambil has called for greater commitment to environmental protection and sustainable living in his Christmas message, urging the faithful to adopt eco-friendly practices in daily life and public celebrations.
The diocese has earlier resolved to reduce carbon emissions. As part of this initiative, a Green Mission Council has begun functioning at the diocesan level to promote environmental awareness and action.
Emphasising the need for strict adherence to green protocols, Bishop Anaparambil, in his message, urged that celebrations and public events be conducted in an environmentally responsible manner. He called on people to make greater use of public transport such as buses and trains, and to walk or cycle whenever possible, especially while travelling to public places and places of worship.
‘Avoid plastics’
The bishop suggested marking occasions such as birthdays, wedding anniversaries and personal achievements by planting saplings, depending on the availability of space. He also called for the complete avoidance of plastic, thermocol and similar materials in decorative items used in churches, institutions and households.
Highlighting the importance of collective responsibility, Bishop Anaparambil encouraged participation in nature conservation activities undertaken by the Church, the government and non-governmental organisations. He urged people to properly collect and hand over plastic waste through systems such as the Haritha Karma Sena, and to ensure that church premises, cemeteries and residential surroundings are kept clean and plastic-free.
He further stressed the need for preventing noise pollution during festival celebrations and other public programmes. Referring to the region’s ecological challenges, the bishop called for strengthening the coastal ecosystem by planting windbreaks and mangroves based on soil conditions to protect shorelines.
With public health also in focus, the bishop advised limiting the consumption of fast food and junk food, linking sustainable lifestyles with overall well-being.
Published – December 17, 2025 05:07 pm IST
