The Pope Backed Climate Movements — So Why Do We Question If It's Worth It?
I thought it would be quite topical to talk about something that was a real legacy and very close to the late Pope Francis.
A Message Beyond Religion
Now, you don’t have to follow any religion to appreciate that what he stood for just made sense. When I read an article about him last Saturday — describing how he chose to live almost without any of the wealth or privilege his position could have given him — it left me genuinely inspired.
The Pope, Energy, and Costs: What's the Connection?
So, what’s the connection between the Pope, energy, and costs? A lot more than you might think. When Pope Francis — leader of 1.3 billion Catholics — backs climate action, you’d think the debate would be over. Yet here we are, still questioning whether it’s “worth it.” And honestly, I get it.
The Noise Around Sustainability
There’s so much noise around sustainability today — and in my view, governments need to provide far more clarity. Mr. Trump doesn’t help the situation either, muddying the waters even further.
For the record, I believe fossil fuels are still needed for now. I’m all about a gentle transition — one that doesn’t destroy organisations along the way. What’s the point of rushing headfirst into new technology if the infrastructure isn’t there? If businesses can’t deliver for customers, or the cost of doing business suddenly increases three, five, or even tenfold, it makes no sense to me.
The Tech Is Good, But Only With ROI
Renewable energy and electric vehicles — all good ideas.
I’ll always discuss and recommend new technology — but the difference with me is that the new tech has to generate a great ROI and deliver cost savings in a realistic timeframe, not in 20 years’ time.
Because great ideas without a clear plan often cause more problems than they solve.
Sustainability Done Right
If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ll know where I stand on this: sustainability done properly is non-negotiable. It’s not about chasing trends or ticking boxes because it looks good on a brochure. It’s about strategy. It’s about asking the right questions first, setting the right goals, and making sure you have the right infrastructure in place to back them up.
Timing, Planning, and Execution Matter
Take an example: what’s the point of converting your whole van fleet to electric if the infrastructure isn’t ready to support your operations or customer needs?
You’ll end up with higher costs, frustrated teams, and disappointed clients.
It’s not that the goal is wrong — it’s that timing, planning, and execution matter.
The Confusion in Today's Sustainability Conversations
And that’s where so much of the confusion sits today.
There’s endless talk about renewables, net zero targets, and sweeping changes that sound brilliant in theory — but without a clear, realistic plan, you risk setting your business back rather than moving it forward.
Sustainability: Not Just a Trend
Sustainability is essential. I’ll never argue that. But it must be approached with a clear-eyed view of the costs, the benefits, the infrastructure, and your long-term objectives. Not wishful thinking. Not marketing headlines. Real, solid, strategic work.
What Pope Francis Can Teach Us
And if you ever need reminding why it’s worth doing properly, just look at what Pope Francis showed the world:
✅ He didn’t just call for change — he used his position to push for real action at global climate summits like COP21 and COP28.
He spoke plainly about the political inertia that holds back real progress, and he wasn’t afraid to hold power to account. (Very true — and very much still happening today.)
✅ He stood up for Indigenous environmental defenders — people fighting to protect their land and lives, often driven by deep faith.
He made sure their voices were heard on the global stage. He understood that justice for people and protection for the planet go hand in hand.
✅ And maybe most importantly, he showed how leadership can drive lasting change.
His encyclical Laudato Si’ didn’t gather dust — it sparked a global movement.
It inspired thousands of communities, businesses, and leaders to take real, practical steps towards protecting the planet — not just with words, but with action.
The Reality of Campaigning and Leadership
My only caveat to all this? Campaigning and activism are important — but they must be grounded in reality. I want to protect the planet for future generations, absolutely. But I also want to feed my kids today, live in the real economy, and make sure we don’t wreck it along the way.
Real Leadership: For the Long Term
Of course, campaigning and activism are important — but they must be grounded in reality.
I want to protect the planet for future generations, absolutely.
But I also want to feed my kids today, live in the real economy, and make sure we don’t wreck it along the way.
Sustainability Done for the Long Run
If Pope Francis — one of the most influential leaders of our time — could recognise that caring for our planet is a responsibility, not a choice, then surely we can recognise that doing it properly, strategically, and sustainably is just as important as doing it at all.
Climate Action for Grown-Ups
When I worked in retail, we used to have a saying:
"This is retailing for grown-ups."
Basically, if you couldn’t make or take the tough decisions, you needed to shape up — or move on.
It’s the same here.
This is climate action for grown-ups.
We need leaders who understand that real change isn’t about grand speeches or ticking boxes.
It’s about protecting what we’ve built — our businesses, our communities, our future — while steering towards something better.
And that means planning properly.
Acting responsibly.
Taking people with you, not leaving them behind.
That’s the kind of leadership we need — and the kind that lasts.
Until next week, just remember this:
“Success is a system, not a secret. Build it, own it—and never wait for permission to improve it.” www.vitalisenergy.uk
