A new phase of our journey towards net zero

At the recent Methodist Conference, representatives heard an update on Action for Hope work and aspiration for the Church to become net zero by 2030.

The report concluded that it would be better to move from the 2030 target while also noting all the progress that has been made.

Dr Hamish Leese, Director of Environmental Engagement at the Methodist Church, has now written a blog arguing that although the target is no longer bound to the 2030 target it remains very much the aspiration of the Church to achieve net zero status.

He writes: “In 2021, the Methodist Conference agreed and affirmed that the global climate emergency is a crisis for God’s creation and a fundamental injustice. It is, therefore, not only a practical issue but a deeply spiritual one, which is inextricably linked to discipleship and God’s mission which we are called to join. At the same Conference, an aspirational target was agreed for the Church to aim to become net zero by 2030.

“In the years since 2021, a great deal of work has been undertaken by churches, circuits and districts all across the Connexion, and I want to say a big congratulations to all those who have made progress. We have seen churches all over the country making environmental concerns part of their worship and teaching life and reduce the amount of energy they are using, as well as sourcing it from renewable sources. Many churches have added solar panels or heat pumps, and many more have taken the first steps that will enable them to travel further on their sustainability journey. Over 1,300 Methodist churches in Great Britain are now registered with Eco Church, and this number is growing all the time.

“While progress has been made which wouldn’t have happened without this target, it is important for us to recognise and acknowledge with lament that we will not be a net zero Church by 2030. The target was an aspirational one precisely because we knew the scale of the challenge in achieving it, and it is one which the Church has not had the capacity to achieve. To retain a target we know we are unable to achieve would undermine our credibility on this incredibly important issue and would open us to accusations of ‘greenwashing’.

“Although the Church is moving away from the time-bound target, this is in no way an indication that these issues are any less important to the Church. Climate change is inherently and inescapably an issue of mission, discipleship and justice. Indeed, this proposed change is a recognition that an issue of this importance requires a realistic and practical approach which moves beyond an aspirational target which is out of reach.

“As we move into a new phase of our journey towards net zero it is critical that we maintain momentum, inspiration and a sense of urgency, where all Methodists and Methodist churches are called to act as swiftly as possible to reduce our emissions and, in doing so, promote climate justice and enable the flourishing of God’s creation.”