St. Peter’s Basilica Launches Ambitious Plan for Zero Environmental Impact

Vatican City, June 17, 2025: The Fabric of St. Peter’s, the institution responsible for the conservation and maintenance of St. Peter's Basilica, unveiled its environmental and energy sustainability project for the basilica during a press conference held at the Holy See Press Office on Tuesday morning. The project aims to achieve zero environmental impact at the world’s largest church. 

The plan, which began in 2022, involves not only the Basilica itself but also the Canonica Palace, Casa Santa Marta, and the Mosaic Studio. It focuses on reducing emissions, monitoring air quality, and fostering ecological awareness among millions of pilgrims and tourists who visit these historic sites.

Speaking at the press conference, Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, President of the Fabric, described the initiative as an effort to make the basilica a “zero-impact home” that welcomes everyone and encourages all to grow in humanity.

The project closely aligns with the Vatican’s broader ecological agenda, such as Conversione Ecologica 2030 and the Borgo Laudato si’, and draws direct inspiration from key Church documents, including Fratelli tutti and Laudate Deum. 

Cardinal Gambetti noted that climate change and sustainability have now become a stable part of the educational, political, and industrial agendas of Western countries.

"An ecological perspective brings with it structural issues tied to the development or decline of civilisations,” since it is interwoven with economics, public health, social justice, and technology, he stated.

Coordinated by Walter Ganapini, a member of the project’s Scientific Committee, the plan pursues “net zero emissions” in accordance with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the European Green Deal. 

Technical enhancements are already underway as part of the project. Advanced sensors have been installed in seven distinct locations inside St. Peter’s Basilica. These sensors are capable of detecting real-time concentrations of particulate matter (PM), total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and microclimatic parameters, ensuring both visitor health and preservation of priceless art.

Work has also focused on enhancing natural ventilation and upgrading the lighting system in the side aisles of the basilica, using LED fixtures. In the Mosaic Studio and the Canonica Palace, the project will address heating, cooling, and dehumidification with custom-designed solutions. 

The initiative sets a new benchmark for sustainability in cultural heritage sites. By combining scientific rigour, theological inspiration, and global best practices, the Vatican aims to make St. Peter’s not only a place of worship but a symbol of ecological responsibility for the world.

Courtesy: Vatican News