Integral Ecology Unit
The Integral Ecology Unit at Comillas Pontifical University aims to promote and coordinate academic and extracurricular initiatives related to ecological and social commitment. The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the approach of "integral ecology" in the Encyclical Laudato si' propose a process of transformation to the university community in order to respond to global challenges.
The Integral Ecology Unit at Comillas Pontifical University aims to promote and coordinate academic and extracurricular initiatives related to ecological and social commitment. The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the approach of "integral ecology" in the Encyclical Laudato si' propose a process of transformation to the university community in order to respond to global challenges.
The conceptual framework, in dialogue with the Sustainable Development Goals, explores the proposal of integral ecology and its implications at Comillas Pontifical University.
Conceptual framework
Objectives of Integral Ecology
The objectives of the Integral Ecology Unit at Comillas Pontifical University are based on the Laudato si' Objectives, which redefine the action of the university community in its relationship with society and the environment. Pope Francis' Encyclical and the Platform for Action Laudato Si', of the Dicastery for the Service of Integral Human Development, call us to live this ecological conversion from a holistic approach in our University.
Environmental ecology is a call for environmental protection, as well as a commitment to address the climate crisis, biodiversity loss and ecological sustainability. Specific objectives are: achieving renewable energy measures and energy sufficiency; achieving carbon neutrality; protecting biodiversity; promoting sustainable agriculture; and ensuring access to clean water.
"There are not two separate crises, one environmental and one social, but a single, complex socio-environmental crisis. The lines for the solution require an integrated approach to combat poverty, to restore dignity to the excluded and simultaneously to care for nature". (LS 139)
Action plan
The holistic spirit of Integral Ecology requires concrete actions to be taken in the various areas of university life. Through the following fields of action, the university community tries to respond to today's ecological and social challenges:
Latest news related to the Integral Ecology of the University
Sal Terrae Magazine dedicates its latest issue to reflection on the Social Doctrine of the Church
The University Impact Ranking 2024 is published, ranking the university 27th in the world and first in Spain in SDG 8
The Integral Ecology Unit held an interdisciplinary meeting as part of the Book and Earth Week activities