Mother Earth’s Rights: A Declaration for Our Shared Future
Declaration of Rights of Mother Earth
Miguel D’Escoto and Leonardo Boff
Preamble
Earth and humanity are part of a vast evolving universe, sharing the same fate, threatened by human irresponsibility. Earth, a single, complex, sacred entity, is a self-regulating system sustaining life. Mother Earth comprises all ecosystems, forming the greater community of life. All humans share a genetic code, establishing life’s sacred unity. Humanity is Earth’s consciousness, expressing its thoughts and feelings.
All humans, with diverse cultures and traditions, form a family with equal rights. Mother Earth provides for all, and life depends on a healthy biosphere. Global warming threatens Earth’s integrity, risking humanity’s survival.
We must renew our contract with nature, moving beyond anthropocentrism. The current production model has failed, widening the gap between rich and poor.
Awareness of Earth’s plight necessitates changes in hearts and minds. We must forge a coalition around common values, inspiring ethical and practical action for sustainable living. This Universal Declaration of the Common Good of Earth and Humanity guides individuals, nations, and communities towards a good life for all.
Article 1
The supreme common good is Earth itself, to be loved, cared for, and honored. Earth cannot be appropriated or systematically harmed. It belongs to all living beings and ecosystems.
I. We must understand Earth as alive, with inherent dignity.
II. We must protect and restore ecosystem integrity, especially biodiversity.
III. All beings are interconnected and have intrinsic value.
Article 2
To ensure the common good, we must reduce, reuse, and recycle, seeking a good life in harmony with nature.
I. Sustainable use of renewable resources is essential.
II. Non-renewable resources must be managed to minimize depletion and harm.
Article 3
Adopt sustainable production and consumption patterns, ensuring social equity and solidarity.
I. Prioritize renewable energy sources.
II. Minimize pollution and prevent global warming.
III. Eliminate weapons of mass destruction.
Article 4
The biosphere is a shared heritage, with humans as guardians.
Article 5
Natural resources like air, water, soil, and biodiversity belong to the common good.
I. Water is a vital resource, accessible to all.
II. Oceans are life’s repositories and climate regulators.
III. Forests are biodiversity hotspots and carbon sinks.
IV. Climates are essential for life, requiring global action.
Article 6
Food diversity and genetic resources are common goods, prohibiting commercial speculation.
Article 7
Essential public goods include energy, health, education, and communication. Medicines become public after five years.
Article 8
Oil, mining, and agro-fuels require state and social control.
Article 9
Humans are bearers of dignity and responsibility.
I. Affirm human intellectual, artistic, and spiritual potential.
II. Nurture and protect Earth and humanity.
III. Ensure fundamental rights and freedoms for all.
Article 10
Knowledge, arts, and techniques are common goods.
I. Preserve traditional knowledge and spiritual wisdom.
II. Support the poor and vulnerable.
III. Eradicate poverty.
IV. Social and ecological justice are inseparable.
V. Promote gender equality and protect children.
Article 11
Governments must respect human and Earth rights, promoting citizen participation.
Article 12
Protect nature reserves, biodiversity, and endangered species.
I. Control alien species and genetically modified organisms.
II. Ensure vital knowledge is public domain.
III. Prohibit patenting genetic resources for food and agriculture.
Article 13
Cultures, languages, arts, and traditions are common goods.
Article 14
Hospitality and welcoming are common goods.
Article 15
Sociality and peaceful coexistence are common goods.
Article 16
Tolerance and respect for differences are common goods.
Article 17
Table fellowship and sharing are common goods.
Article 18
Compassion for all suffering is a common good.
Article 19
Ethical principles of respect, care, and responsibility are common goods.
Article 20
The constant search for peace is a common good.
Article 21
A loving energy sustains the universe.
Article 22
These ideals extend human rights, enriching them with the rights of Mother Earth and Humanity.