14th March 2026

The latest report on glaciers by the Austrian Alpine Club say that glaciers in the Austrian Alps are disintegrating, as a consequence of climate change. "Many glaciers are not only shrinking in length but are increasingly entering a phase of structural disintegration," said Andreas Kellerer-Pirklbauer from the University of Graz. "Exposed rock ledges, sections of ice breaking away and glacier tongues collapsing in on themselves are increasingly shaping the landscape."  This phenomena is not unique to Austria. In neighbouring Switzerland, home to Europe's highest number of glaciers, similar degradation of glaciers has been observed in recent years, reflecting a broader global crisis. Austrian Alpine Club vice president Nicole Slupetzky said, “The glaciers are melting — and with every new report, the urgency grows. It’s no longer a question of whether we can still save the glaciers in their old form; it’s about mitigating the consequences for ourselves.” Such changes in the Alps should serve as a “wake-up call” for policymakers and the public in its behaviour, the club said. The London Assembly heard this week that extreme heat is becoming an increasing issue in London, with more than a 10th of the 3,271 UK-wide heat-related deaths in 2022 occurring in London. The climate implications of the Iran war and others across the globe, are not the focus of attention, but are adding to irreversible climate breakdown. The issue isn't simply one of oil supplies or destruction of oil facilities.  Aircraft carriers, jet planes, and the myriad support systems they require consume significant quantities of fossil fuels. The US Department of Defence is the largest institutional emitter of greenhouse gases globally.

Loving God, we thank you and marvel at the wonderful world you have given us.  We are amazed by the interconnected nature of ecosystems, ocean currants and wind systems.  Forgive us that we are destroying the work of your hand, and all that supports life upon the planet. Forgive us that we kill maim and destroy yet give no thought to the survival of the planet and its systems that sustain us all.  Move among the world's media that they will highlight the environmental impact of war and the indirect human cost, as well as the direct human cost.  Move among the leaders of nations that they will seek to address climate change, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and seeking to prevent the pollution of air, land and water. Help us all to care and cherish for this wonderful world you have placed us upon so that it will continue provide for us all.  In Jesus' name, Amen.

Over the past 3 years, Hawaiʻi Pacific University’s “Bounty Project” has removed over 84 metric tons (185,000 pounds) of derelict fishing gear from the North Pacific Ocean by turning commercial fishing trips into opportunities for ocean cleanup. The  Bounty Project is one of only 3 initiatives to remove debris around North Pacific Garbage Patch. Nets, lines, and floats are removed from the ocean before they can drift into reefs, shorelines, or threaten endangered marine wildlife. “This project stands out for its innovative approach, partnering with commercial fishers toward a solution. Compensating those already on the water to remove derelict fishing gear, maximizes both efficiency and environmental benefit,” shared Mark Manuel, NOAA Marine Debris Program’s Pacific Islands Region Coordinator.  “It is incredible that we are now approaching 200,000 pounds of gear removed from the ocean through this project,” says HPU CMDR Project Manager Katie Stevens in a statement, “and it has been great to see the enthusiasm and engagement of the commercial fishers as stewards of the ocean environment.” 

You can find out more here.

Father of creation,

you are the almighty God.

All good and perfect gifts come from you.

You are the source of love, life, and holiness.

We give you thanks for life. 

In you we live, move, and have our being. 

Thank you that you hold us in your hands,

for you are our protection and guide. 

We thank you that in your great mercy

you forgive our faults, weaknesses and sinfulness.

 Holy Father, you love each of us

as a child of your creation,

and you shower upon us innumerable blessings.

What a great and loving God you are.

All power, majesty and might be yours.

We lift your name up high

wonderful, marvellous God.

Glory, honour and praise be to you.

Amen.