Where does CatholicVote.org stand on Environmental Policy?

All of Creation has been given to us by God, and deserves to be treated with respect. Care for Creation goes beyond politics — it is integral to how we live our everyday lives, respect the dignity of all life, and construct society. Human beings are stewards of Creation, and we are called to respect animals, plants, and our natural resources. Most importantly, a consistent ethic of respect for Creation forces us to put human needs first. Therefore, we reject any policy that will hurt the poor, deny life to children in the womb, implement crippling economic measures that make it more difficult for families to support themselves, or abolish the right to private property.

Senator Marco Rubio speaks about this here.

What does the Catholic Church teach about the environment?

“In the beginning God entrusted the earth and its resources to the common stewardship of mankind to take care of them, master them by labor, and enjoy their fruits. The goods of creation are destined for the whole human race. However, the earth is divided up among men to assure the security of their lives, endangered by poverty and threatened by violence. The appropriation of property is legitimate for guaranteeing the freedom and dignity of persons and for helping each of them to meet his basic needs and the needs of those in his charge. It should allow for a natural solidarity to develop between men.” (CCC 2402)

“The seventh commandment enjoins respect for the integrity of creation. Animals, like plants and inanimate beings, are by nature destined for the common good of past, present, and future humanity. Use of the mineral, vegetable, and animal resources of the universe cannot be divorced from respect for moral imperatives. Man’s dominion over inanimate and other living beings granted by the Creator is not absolute; it is limited by concern for the quality of life of his neighbor, including generations to come; it requires a religious respect for the integrity of creation.” (CCC 2415)