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Elder Gérald Caussé, the newest member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, addressed environmental stewardship and humanitarian care during two conferences at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. Speaking to hundreds in attendance, Elder Caussé described caring for the earth and its people as “an expression of love for our Creator and a reflection of our sincere gratitude to Him.”
He encouraged attendees to take action. “It is an invitation to act,” Elder Caussé said. “As disciples of Jesus Christ, we have a sacred duty to keep the flame of God’s love burning in our hearts and to let its light shine within our communities. The Lord asks us to be aware of the broader world around us — something more possible than ever in our connected age — while remaining grounded and actively engaged in the places where we live and serve.”
Elder Caussé highlighted several Church initiatives focused on environmental sustainability. He noted that more than 800 Church facilities across 45 countries now produce on-site solar power, with at least 100 additional projects approved for construction. He also mentioned that BYU–Hawaii is nearing completion on a solar microgrid intended to supply energy for the campus, Laie Temple, and Polynesian Cultural Center.
The shift toward renewable energy has benefits beyond reducing waste and saving tithing funds; it also supports education and healthy living. Elder Caussé explained that in developing nations, meetinghouses equipped with solar power, backup batteries, and satellite internet can function as virtual classrooms throughout the week. This technology helps programs like BYU–Pathway expand access to education—expected to reach 100,000 students this year—and supports self-reliance classes covering topics such as financial literacy, entrepreneurship, health practices, and nutrition.
Addressing material waste reduction efforts, Elder Caussé referenced paper recycling at the Salt Lake City print center and Deseret Industries thrift stores that provide work-training opportunities through recycling donated goods. Additionally, he said all electronic waste from U.S. and Canadian Church operations is diverted from landfills for donation or recycling; some used computers are distributed to BYU–Pathway students in Africa.
Water conservation was another focus area discussed by Elder Caussé. He cited plans announced earlier this year for smart irrigation controllers at over 3,000 meetinghouses across Idaho, Utah, Arizona, Nevada, Wyoming, and Montana—nearly 1,800 are scheduled for installation by year’s end.
The Church has also worked with local partners on water issues affecting the Great Salt Lake by leasing up to 7,400 acre-feet of water annually over ten years through an agreement with the Great Salt Lake Watershed Enhancement Trust.
“We are grateful for the tireless efforts of so many who apply their skills, talents, ingenuity, creativity and other means to tackle such a complex problem — including those here at BYU and other Church employees,” Elder Caussé said. “We acknowledge the numerous complexities surrounding the future of the Great Salt Lake and stand ready to be a part of the solution alongside all our diverse community stakeholders.”
Efforts extend internationally as well: since 2022 in Kiribati—where five solar-powered desalination plants have been built—the Church has helped provide sustainable water systems serving about 6,000 residents with plans underway for ten more plants nationwide.
“Area leadership intends to help construct 10 more across the country,” Elder Caussé said. “This is truly lifesaving work.”
Elder Caussé’s address echoed themes previously shared by other senior leaders. In 2023 at a conference in Brazil attended by President D. Todd Christofferson from the First Presidency he stated: “In all aspects of our earthly stewardships, our love of God and our discipleship of Jesus Christ will be a sure guide…we should use our earthly blessings to minister to [others]…in a way that enables them…to come to know…God.” Later that year in Abu Dhabi Elder Patrick Kearon called for unified action among governments faith groups media industry scholars families saying: “A unified effort — where governments faith…and families work together — is…the way…to achieve…the noble goal…”
Earlier this year Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson urged young adults worldwide: “Recognize…the connection between caring for…the earth…and caring for…our neighbor…”
Concluding his remarks at BYU Friday Elder Caussé affirmed: “Disciples…are called…to honor…and care for His creations…and bless families strengthen communities lift those around us…” He added: “I testify that God…and His Son Jesus Christ live…and love us perfectly.…As we follow Them…and serve faithfully we will find true…and everlasting joy.”
The full speech is available under "Caring for God’s Creations," with further information found on Environmental Sustainability in Church Operations.
