At the end of the World Interfaith Harmony Week 2026, more than 50 participants of 15 different faiths or religious groups met for a workshop in Browns Bay, Auckland, to discuss their personal and communal contributions of how they could mitigate Climate Change while also looking at ways of adapting to the impacts of climate change.
This workshop, organised by the Auckland Inter-Faith Council (AIFC), was part of the launch of a new short book published by the Religious Diversity Centre (RDC): ‘E tū te mana o te ao: Building a Climate of Hope – Faith and Action Guide’. It was written by the Religious Diversity Centre Climate Action Group.
One of the authors of this guide, Dr Nizar Mohamed, introduced the guide in a few words. He worked for sustainable development agencies for more than 50 years and about 25 years ago, he represented Aotearoa New Zealand as their policy advisor at the UN World Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro when the Agenda 21 was produced.
In 2024, religious leaders asked the RDC Climate Action Group to produce a resource they could use to create awareness and commitment to support Climate Action. The guide has now been launched at the same time as some countries are literally dismantling climate action programmes.
It didn’t take long for the groups to get immersed in discussions. There was a buzzing in the room that was hard to stop even when the organisers announced that there was a cuppa ready for them.
At the end of the workshop, the groups reported back to the participants. The results of the discussions covered three main areas:
1. Community Building. This includes building an environment of kindness across all generations, ethnic and (non-) religious groups.
2. Education & Capacity Building. A special focus was here on sustainable life-styles, and working together to build trust.
3. Networking. The goal is to promote a whole-of-community approach on all levels of government and community groups.
The full report compiled by Dr Nizar Mohamed is available here.
As a result of this event, a working group will be established with members of diverse faiths.
In the 1980s, many volunteers and community groups were involved in creating awareness about the danger to the ozone layer. World leaders acted. The activism then saved generations now.
Climate action is not visible but a fact. Action cannot be left only to the governments. Every contribution and initiative towards sustainable development counts.
All major Faiths share some spiritual foundations relevant to climate action. The Faith and Action Guide provides information, ideas and suggestions.
Awareness and advocacy for the current situation are urgently needed.
Together we can build a Climate of Hope.
