Tim Kaine statement on papal encyclical on climate change

U.S. Senator Tim Kaine released the following statement on Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si, which called for greater individual and societal action to combat climate change.

“Pope Francis today reiterated what has long been confirmed by overwhelming evidence: climate change exists, it is significantly driven by human activity, and we have an obligation to do something about it – for affected communities at home like Hampton Roads that are affected by seal level rise, and for striving communities all over the developing world.  I believe political leaders must think of our planet not just as a trove of resources for us to tap until they are exhausted, but as a sacred responsibility whose long-term health is up to every generation to preserve for the next.  I thank His Holiness for reminding us of our social, moral, and indeed spiritual obligation to leave our children a cleaner planet than the one we have now.”