Election principles: Building a flourishing world

Ahead of the general election on 4 July, Captain John Clifton continues a series of reflections about The Salvation Army’s four key principles for political candidates.

Climate change statistics are often so vast and overwhelming that they can be hard to grasp. However, when its effects touch our everyday lives, it becomes undeniably real. For example, last weekend, while participating in the Lakesman Triathlon with a swim in Derwentwater, I witnessed the effects of climate change in the Lake District, with warmer temperatures leading to concerns about the spread of toxic blue-green algae, which adversely affects water quality and recreational use.  

Today, the challenges posed by environmental degradation are more pressing than ever. Climate change, pollution and deforestation wreak havoc on ecosystems. Even in the Lake District, increased rainfall and flooding – such as the disastrous floods of 2009 and 2015 – and the droughts experienced in 2010 exemplify the extreme weather patterns exacerbated by climate change. 

Environmental degradation and climate change affect us all. However, we might forget that there is a disproportionate impact on the world’s most vulnerable populations. With people’s health, livelihood and shelter threatened, the World Bank has estimated that climate change could push up to 135 million people into poverty by 2030. 

For decades, The Salvation Army has championed social justice and environmental stewardship, actively engaging in initiatives to protect creation and promote sustainability. Our Movement’s efforts have included advocating for environmental policies, supporting communities impacted by environmental disasters, and implementing sustainable practices within the Army’s operations. 

We recognise that caring for creation is an integral part of our mission, grounded in our theological belief that we are stewards of God’s creation. Local communities have been instrumental in these efforts, participating in clean-up campaigns, tree planting and educational programmes to raise awareness of environmental issues. 

To build a flourishing world, advocating for key policy changes is essential. First, the Army has called for a commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2040, a goal that requires bold action and collaboration across all sectors of society. 

Second, it has urged support for international development efforts that address environmental injustices and promote sustainable development. This includes providing targeted aid to climate-impacted countries and investing heavily in renewable energy projects.  

Third, it has emphasised the need for leadership and responsibility from elected representatives to tackle environmental issues head-on. Again, local communities are pivotal, advocating for these changes, implementing sustainable practices and leading grassroots initiatives. By working together, we can create a more just and sustainable world for future generations. 

Salvationists in the UK can use this general election season to act to protect our planet and its people, whether that is getting involved in environmental advocacy, supporting sustainable initiatives or pushing for policy changes. 

As Christians, we are called to steward God’s creation, champion environmental justice and support those impacted by environmental crises. Zechariah 7:9 reminds us to ‘administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another’. By embodying these principles in our efforts to care for creation, we are not only caring for the environment, but also for our brothers and sisters across the world.