In a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions, the Vatican has signed an agreement with German carmaker Volkswagen AG to gradually replace its auto fleet with electric vehicles. The partnership falls under the Vatican's "Ecological Conversion 2030 plan," which aims to pursue sustainable and carbon-neutral projects within the 109-acre city state in Rome. Although the announcement did not disclose specific details about the deal or set a timetable for the completion of the switch to electric vehicles, this collaboration highlights the Vatican's commitment to combat climate change and promote environmental stewardship.

Governing body of Vatican City State announces series of measures in partnership with Volkswagen Group to create and use energy sustainably, reaching net zero by 2030. pic.twitter.com/ImN1TkM1a5

— Austen Ivereigh (@austeni) November 15, 2023

Pope Francis, a vocal advocate for planet conservation, is set to address the upcoming COP28 meeting in Dubai, becoming the first pope to speak at a UN climate conference. Last month, Pope Francis issued an urgent update to his 2015 encyclical on the environment, challenging world leaders to implement binding targets to slow down climate change. He warned that the Earth's increasingly warming creation was approaching a "point of no return." The Vatican has been actively pursuing sustainability initiatives even before Francis's papacy.

Pope Benedict XVI, known as the "green pope," introduced various measures in Vatican City, including the installation of solar panels on the main Vatican audience hall. According to a statement released by the Vatican City State administration, the partnership with Volkswagen and its Skoda brand will involve medium- and long-term leases. The carmaker has been deemed the Vatican's top strategic partner for the project to renovate its car park. The Vatican administration intends to gradually replace its auto fleet with electric vehicles by 2030, while also increasing the number of charging stations throughout the territory.

Additionally, the city state plans to source all its energy needs exclusively from renewable sources. This agreement marks a significant milestone for the Vatican in its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and demonstrates the organization's dedication to sustainable transportation and net-zero emissions technologies. The Vatican's collaboration with Volkswagen serves as a powerful example of the importance of embracing environmental responsibility and working towards a greener future.