Pope Benedict XVI: the first green pontiff?

What is without doubt is that Benedict was progressive when it comes
to the environment, taking a stand against climate change, promoting
renewable energy and calling for a closer communion between Catholics
and nature.

Addressing Italian students in 2011, he called on them to become
‘guardians of nature’ and follow in the footsteps of St. Francis of
Assisi, patron saint of ecology.

…

“Respect for the human being and respect for nature are one, but both
can grow and find their right measure if we respect in the human being
and in nature the Creator and his creation. On this, dear young people, I
believe to find allies in you, true “guardians of life and creation.”

Pope Benedict XVI: the first green pontiff? | Environment | guardian.co.uk.