Preserving Our Commons: Call to Action

Abstract

The aim of this chapter is to reflect on the problem of the tragedy of the commons and the side effects of a utilitarian approach toward environmental and social justice. Thus, we will analyze how “the tragedy of commons” is affecting forests, cities, and, ultimately, the dignity of the people living in the Global North and South. First, we focus on the environmental tragedy happening in the Amazon Rainforest. Second, we analyze the problem of drought in California and the consequent tragedy of widespread wildfires. Third, we address the problem of the out-of-fashion waste in Accra, Ghana, before finally presenting the case of Europe’s dependence on energy, which has been brought to light by the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. In its conclusion, this paper will reflect on Ostrom’s principles of Governing the Commons and the legacy that is being built by the Economy of Francesco in response to Pope Francis’ call to action.