The Revd Canon Dr Rachel Mash, Environmental Coordinator of the Anglican Church of Southern Africa, has been appointed as a member of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Faith for Earth Interfaith Women Council. This newly established council, launched on 30 January 2025, brings together women faith leaders from across the world to advocate for environmental sustainability and the role of faith communities in addressing ecological challenges.
The Faith for Earth Interfaith Women Council is an initiative of UNEP’s Faith for Earth Coalition, which seeks to mobilise religious communities in pursuit of environmental action. The council comprises 24 distinguished female faith leaders who provide leadership on ecological justice, sustainability, and the intersection of faith and environmental responsibility.
A Voice for Women in Climate Advocacy
Canon Rachel brings extensive experience in environmental leadership to the council. She is the founder of the Green Anglicans Movement, an initiative that encourages young people to engage in climate action across Africa. She also serves as Coodinator of the Anglican Communion Environmental Network and Co-Chair of the International Season of Creation Steering Committee, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to environmental advocacy within faith communities.
Last year, Canon Rachel represented the Anglican Communion at the UN Environment Assembly and spoke on behalf of a coalition of civil society groups about sustainable lifestyles, reducing plastic pollution, environmental damage caused by mineral extraction and the links between environmental justice and armed conflict.
In her address at the inaugural meeting of the Faith for Earth Interfaith Women Council, Canon Rachel underscored the importance of amplifying the voices of young, Anglican women in climate advocacy:
“Across the communion we see women at the forefront of climate action -young climate activists raising their prophetic voices – such as the Green Anglicans or the ‘Climate Yes’ youth ecumenical summit. We see women clergy at the forefront – Diocesan Environmental Coordinators and missioners, liturgists, activists – and Eco-bishops! Women are rising!”
Furthermore, she spoke about the Mothers’ Union Eco Champs, a programme launched across Southern Africa to empower women within dioceses to lead environmental efforts in their communities. She also acknowledged the critical role of women clergy in the Anglican Church, noting that while they are fewer in number, they are often at the forefront of environmental advocacy.
A Commitment to Environmental Justice
Canon Rachel also addressed the pressing issue of the ongoing UN negotiations on a Global Plastics Treaty. She urged faith leaders to advocate for policies that prioritise reducing plastic production, rather than merely managing waste. She highlighted the disproportionate impact of plastic pollution on women, children, and unborn babies, calling for faith communities to play a role in influencing decision-makers towards stronger environmental commitments.
Canon Rachel’s appointment is a recognition of her leadership in faith-based environmental action and her dedication to climate justice. Her presence on the council will provide opportunity to champion Anglican commitment to the 5th Mark of Mission (that aims to treasure and safeguard creation) and advocate for vulnerable people impacted by environmental crises.
