We have rediscovered our sense of how interconnected the world is. The very health and future of humanity depends on our ability to act together not only with respect to pandemics but also in protecting our global eco-system.

At the same time, less travel and consumption and more kindness and neighbourliness have helped us appreciate what society can really mean.We have also seen yet again that in times of crisis, injustice becomes more obvious, and that it is the poor and vulnerable who suffer most.

All this shows us how precarious our previous 'business as usual' was, socially, economically, ecologically and spiritually.

Yet we have also demonstrated our capacity to adapt to new realities.

Many people have discovered a deeper sense of spirituality. We have seen the possibility of creating a more sustainable and generous society in which we care more deeply for each other and the world.

Our faiths teach us that our planet, with its rich resources and inspiring diversity, is lent to us on trust only and we are accountable for how we treat it. We are urgently and inescapably responsible, not just before God but to our own children and the very future of humanity.

This unique moment calls us to develop a shared new vision for our future which we cannot afford to miss. As faith leaders we are committed to working alongside the people and governments of this nation and the world to formulate and live by such a vision.

It must be based on the recognition of our limits: this planet is a complex ecosystem in which we are only one part. It must be rooted in sustainability and respect for nature and the earth's resources. It must be founded on the fundamental principles of justice and responsibility.

In this, the fifth anniversary year of Pope Francis' encyclical Laudato Si, we undertake to:

- Speak out urgently about the need for change;

- Promote the vision of the earth as our common home which must be shared equitably;

- Protect biodiversity and restore natural environments;

- Work with our communities to reduce substantially the carbon intensity of our activities;

- Build worldwide partnerships to reduce the impact of climate change on the poorest and most vulnerable;

- Model what we teach in our faiths and communities.

We therefore call on our Government to:

- Ensure that every element of the economic recovery strategy has at its centre the urgent need to reduce the risk of catastrophic

climate change;

- Implement policies for sustainability in every sector of the economy;

- Take its due share of responsibility for a global & just transition, including through its approach to trade, investment and overseas

aid;

- Use its COP26 presidency to work for a global commitment to net zero, building on the Paris Agreement;

- To protect biodiversity and restore the environment;

- We urge every sector of civil society to use this opportunity to work together to create a better world.

Yours faithfully,