Published on June 18, 2015, by Democracy Now, this report covers Pope Francis's encyclical on the environment and climate change. In the encyclical (available

Published on June 18, 2015, by Democracy Now, this report covers Pope Francis's encyclical on the environment and climate change. In the encyclical (available to download here), Pope Francis called for urgent action to protect the planet, urging leaders to hear "the cry of the Earth and the cry of the poor." He emphasized a moral imperative for all to safeguard the environment, advocating for a shift from a "throwaway" consumer culture in rich countries and an end to attitudes that prioritize profit over the common good. A key theme is the disparity between rich and poor, with the Pope noting the vast difference between those in "desperate and degrading poverty" and those with excessive possessions.

The discussion features Naomi Klein, author of "This Changes Everything: Capitalism vs. the Climate," who was invited to speak at the Vatican's "People and Planet First: The Imperative to Change Course" conference. Also joining is Nathan Schneider, a columnist at America magazine, a national Catholic weekly published by the Jesuits.

Democracy Now! is an independent global news hour, airing weekdays on over 1,300 TV and radio stations. Their livestream is available Monday through Friday, 8-9 am ET.

Nathan's Peace Corps service in Africa ignited his passion for sustainable living and community. This led him to co-found Food

Nathan's Peace Corps service in Africa ignited his passion for sustainable living and community. This led him to co-found Food Waves in 2010 with Matt Brown, Benjamin Green, and Bobbie Brown.

Food Waves focuses on producing organic food for the local Portland, Oregon market. They champion "small acre stewardship" and sustainable agriculture as solutions to environmental challenges, aiming to develop future farmers by providing essential technical and financial support.

After teaching Geoscience, Marine Science, and Environmental Horticulture, Matt became concerned about modern agriculture's impact on ocean health. This led him to reconnect with his old

After teaching Geoscience, Marine Science, and Environmental Horticulture, Matt became concerned about modern agriculture's impact on ocean health. This led him to reconnect with his old Peace Corps friend, Nathan.

In 1999, Matt and Bobbie Brown met Nathan McFall in Togo, West Africa, where they collaborated with local communities on environmental education, soil conservation, and animal husbandry. You can learn more about Nathan's work here.

In summer 2010, the Brown family moved to Milwaukie, Oregon. There, they partnered with Nathan to establish the non-profit Food|Waves. Matt was interviewed by EarthSayers.tv in July 2011.