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On the evening of the fifth day of creation, God saw that it was good: On
the blue planet, the material world operated as a beautiful, harmonious system,
following the established physical, chemical, biological, and ecological laws.
The troubles began with the fall, when humanity — created in Gods own
image — gained the ability to discern good and evil, and could only earn their
bread by the sweat of their brow. Yet, in His mercy, God gradually allowed
humanity to understand the inner laws of the material world and endowed
them with the ability to transform it, making them partners in its development.
However, the inclination to sin remains an inseparable part of human nature.
Selfishness and the relentless pursuit of profit, coupled with advancements
in science and technology, have led to the exploitation of Earth’s resources,
turning the flourishing garden God gifted us into a wasteland of ruin, desert,
and pollution (Laudato Si’). The concept of ecological sin, as an act against
God, neighbour, community, and the world, has become a recognized term
in both religious and scientific discourse. We may consider granting legal
personhood to nature to ensure that the right of future generations to a
healthy environment is not violated. Science and technology, as magnificent
products of God-given creativity, must be used for the benefit of all. This is
no easy task.
Sopron
Summer 2025
Péter Vig, PhD
Climatologist, Forestry Engineer, Plant Protection Engineer,
Retired Associate Professor
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