The Shaping of Sustainable Landscape in the Context of the European Landscape Convention and the Encyclical Laudato Si’

The article discusses the rational and responsible shaping of landscapes that takes into account the moral aspects of the relationship between human beings and landscape. This subject matter is presented in the light of two ideas striving to achieve similar goals and similar approaches to achieving them.

The first reflection refers to the concept of sustainable development, according to which the management of landscape regarded as part of the environment where people live should seek to ensure the best possible conditions for the existence of contemporary and future generations. Landscape satisfies many material and spiritual needs, thus enhancing the quality of human life. The attainment of a high quality of life by people is the fundamental objective of sustainable development.

The second point of reference is the teaching of the Catholic Church with regard to the relationship between human beings and the natural environment, as presented in the Encyclical Laudato Si’  by Pope Francis. This text presents the Holy Father’s stance on the contemporary ecological crisis and its impact on the living conditions and ethical attitudes of people. The Pope observes that the provision of decent living conditions is necessary for every human being to properly exist and develop. Thus Francis indicates the necessity of looking for solutions to the currently common moral dilemmas, including the problem of reconciling environmental protection, including landscape preservation, with human development needs. The reflections in the encyclical are not only a manifestation the Pope’s concern for the Earth but they can also provide guidelines and an effective stimulus for shaping sustainable landscape.