Pope Francis has described environmental damage as a "sin against creation".

He made the remarks in a message marking the 'World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation'.

In a message shared by Vatican Radio, the pontiff said: "God gave us a bountiful garden, but we have turned it into a polluted wasteland of 'debris, desolation and filth'.

"We must not be indifferent or resigned to the loss of biodiversity and the destruction of ecosystems, often caused by our irresponsible and selfish behaviour."

Pope Francis also argued that there is an 'ecological debt' between the 'global north and south'.

He added: "Repaying it would require treating the environments of poorer nations with care and providing the financial resources and technical assistance needed to help them deal with climate change and promote sustainable development."