Pope Leo XIV has strongly condemned companies that generate massive profits while contributing to environmental damage, during a visit to a heavily polluted region in southern Italy.
Speaking in the town of Acerra, near Naples, the pope urged global leaders and businesses to reject the pursuit of wealth and power when it comes at the expense of the environment and public health. The area is widely known for illegal toxic waste dumping and has been linked to serious health issues among residents.
During his visit, Pope Leo said he came to “share in the suffering” of families who have lost loved ones due to pollution-related illnesses. He criticized what he described as reckless actions by individuals and organizations that have operated without accountability for years.
The region, often referred to as the “Land of Fires,” has faced long-standing environmental challenges. In 2025, the European Court of Human Rights ruled that authorities failed to adequately protect residents from the dangers of illegal waste disposal over several decades.
The court instructed the Italian government to improve transparency by creating a comprehensive database of toxic sites and informing the public about associated risks. Efforts have since been launched to support victims and clean up affected areas.
Pope Leo is expected to release a major document soon addressing global issues, including the impact of artificial intelligence and its implications for workers and warfare.