‘Let all eat from the one garden’, Pope tells ‘Feed the World’ Expo

Pope Francis has called on humanity to stop “abusing” the planet as he prepares to release his “green” encyclical, writes Hannah Roberts.

Opening the world’s Expo fair in Milan on the theme of Feeding the World, Francis said the challenge for mankind is to “stop abusing the garden we have been given so that we can all eat from the garden”.

The theme of the exhibition – at which the Vatican has a pavilion – chimes with Francis’ second encyclical, on the environment, publication of which is expected soon.

The opening of the event was overshadowed by violent clashes between black-clad anti-globalisation protesters and police. Demonstrators say the Expo will benefit only big business.

The international showcase has been plagued by allegations of bribes and contract rigging, but Francis acknowledged the Expo was a good opportunity to “globalise solidarity”.