A small task group have met to take the resolution forward and bring ideas for discussion.

In this changing environment we are aware that many churches are already taking steps to lower their carbon footprint and engaging in their communities with these issues. We would seek to complement what they are achieving rather than produce a different way of working. Our aim is to provide resources that will help them. There was a strong feeling that we must give a message of hope by showing congregations they can be empowered to make a greener future for all. We were all in agreement that climate change is a spiritual/ ethical /justice issue.

A draft timetable has been set up which includes starting the process to cut emissions at Church House through an environmental audit. If agreed, it is envisaged that this would be launched with a "Green Week" to raise awareness within Church House. We would aim to follow this with regular events and information to keep momentum going.

In March we will report to Mission Council on progress and forward planning .Our new URC web page will have up to date information on progress both at Church House and beyond. Stories from churches already making changes will be prominent. Links with useful sites will be part of this page.

Look out for the June edition of Reform with guest editor Revd David Pickering with help from Revd Dave Coaker. This will be on the subject of Climate change.

At this year's General Assembly Mark Dowd, from Operation Noah, will be a guest speaker on the problems raised by environmental refugees. Ideas to complement this subject are in the pipeline. We would hope to publish a leaflet to help churches to lower their carbon footprint, giving information on suppliers and ways to campaign both nationally and locally

September 24th sees a "Green Apostles" Event. This day will be for Commitment for Life Advocates and those within the Synods for whom this will be of interest. Speakers will inform and inspire action.

We are looking at using one Synod with both rural and urban areas to collect energy readings from churches to get a baseline reading. This would work in the same way that volunteers collected information on Fairtrade churches

Alongside these activities we would commission papers on the theological and economic perspectives together with publication of worship materials and a "myths buster".

At present Commitment for Life are collating useful web addresses and producing a database of interested and informed people. We are looking out for those churches already taking steps to make changes.

As the news of what has been achieved at Church house permeates out to Synods and then churches we would encourage all to look to becoming a carbon neutral church.

Linda Mead
Commitment for Life Programme Co-ordinator