Vatican Set to Go Green

VATICAN CITY, NOV. 21, 2008 (Zenit.org).- The Vatican will be taking a step toward promoting a greener culture next week as it inaugurates new solar panels on the roof of Paul VI Hall.

The inauguration will take place Wednesday at the headquarters of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, a Vatican communiqué reported today.

The 2,400 solar panels replace the deteriorating concrete roof panels, and the photovoltaic cells will convert sunlight into electricity, and generate enough power to light, heat or cool the 6,000-seat hall.

The Vatican says the solar panel project is one of the "concrete and tangible initiatives" of the Vatican to promote the protection of the environment.

The statement added that it is also is part of the "green culture characterized by ethical values" promoted by Benedict XVI.

Cardinal Giovanni Lajolo, governor of Vatican City State, will preside at the event.

Pier Luigi Nervi designed Paul VI, which was completed in 1971.