42 churches across the diocese are going to be able to take more action to reduce their carbon footprints and invest in the future, thanks to a new Church of England programme.
The 42 churches in our diocese are part of a wider plan to identify the 600 highest carbon emitting churches in the Church of England, and offer them support in reducing their carbon emissions.
These churches are being offered a free energy audit, done by trained specialists, and the possibility of a £3000 grant to follow up on one or more recommendations from the audit.
The Rt Revd Anna Eltringham, Bishop of Ripon and Lead Bishop on the environment for our diocese, said: “It is great to know the Church of England is committed to help these churches in reducing their carbon emissions, a key part of how we safeguard God’s Creation and reach out in love to the needs of God’s world.
“This investment in our buildings’ future will help ensure our churches are open, welcoming and sustainable for generations to come.
“But there is much more we want to do to help every church across the diocese in this important Kingdom-work.
“There are already many resources available and much more in development so do keep an eye open for all that follows in the coming months!”
We are keen to support all parishes on the net zero journey, which can be complex for some.
The Church Buildings Team are available to offer advice about what works parishes can do to lower emissions and set their churches up for the future, and more on this can be found here.
Additionally, recognising the challenges around funding and getting good independent advice for church sustainability projects, the diocese now have a part time Net Zero Carbon Fundraising Officer, Fran Taylor.
More on funding can be found here.
One thing churches can do to unlock opportunities for support in this area is complete the Energy Footprinting Tool as part of the Online Parish Returns system – more on this can be found here.