While I'm not sure where the new head of the Catholic Church stands on climate change, Pope Francis is already shaking things up when it comes to environmental issues. In the beginning, he had made small efforts such as eating meals at home and speaking out for the poor in the face of globalization. I was also hopeful when he took the name Saint Francis, the patron saint of animals and the environment, after all. 

It is often cited that he loves transit. The Pope simply loves to take the bus as part of his committment to humble living though it seemed like he would have to give it up for security reasons. 

Meet the Pope Bus.

From Planetizen:

The Pope Bus is inspired by Pope Francis' own transportation preferences. When a cardinal in Buenos Aires, he gave up his chauffeured limousine and opted to ride the bus to work. Before accepting the Popedom, he insisted that the provision of a Pope Bus – with bullet-proof viewing chamber included – be written into his contract. And so it was.

Known for his humility and consideration of the less fortunate, Pope Francis says he hopes his new Pope Bus will provide service and comfort to the less fortunate of the world.

"If I'm going to be paraded across town like a museum exhibit, I might as well help get some people to work while I'm doing it," said the Pope in a telephone interview from a payphone newly installed by his request in Vatican City.

Read the full story HERE. 

P.S. Yes, this is a belated April Fool's. And, yes, The Pope still rides the bus which is pretty cool.

---

---