Italy and the Vatican have signed a deal to convert a 430‑hectare field in Santa Maria Galeria, north of Rome, into a solar farm. The project, estimated to cost under €100 million (US$114 million), is designed to power Vatican City entirely and qualify it as the world’s first carbon-neutral state. The site will retain agricultural use, benefit local communities, and supply clean energy, drastically cutting emissions. This landmark move is part of the Vatican’s ecological legacy under Pope Leo XIV, continuing Pope Francis’s vision, although it is still pending parliamentary approval.
Robert Francis Prevost became Pope Leo XIV and took his place as the head of the catholic church on May 8, 2025.
Right away, he made it clear that he intended to continue Pope Francis’ environmental legacy, and within the first few months of his papacy, he is already making good on that promise.He has introduced the first-ever ‘green’ Mass, established an ecological educational center, and is planning to make the Vatican City the world’s first carbon-neutral state.
So, does this make Pope Leo the first ‘green’ pope? Click on to find out.