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OCR
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 10
