One of the ways churches can tackle climate change is through reducing the carbon released from buildings into the atmosphere.
But where do you start? It can all seem overwhelming.
Here’s ten simple steps to get your church started on its journey to net zero carbon.
- Find some people to work together, this is a big challenge to do alone. Maybe you could team up with another church in your deanery, or get a keen volunteer from the community.
- Have a look at our resources and case studies for inspiration and advice.
- Register for Eco Church and have a look at the survey questions – they have lots of ideas for free, including many easy changes you can make.
- Start recording regular meter readings so you can see how much energy you actually use. Or get a smart meter to make it even easier!
- Fill in the Energy Footprint Tool (EFT) to get an annual carbon footprint report to share with your PCC and help get more people on board!
- Use the Church Heating Checklist to think about what where your church needs to be heated – is it the space or the people? All the time or just Sunday morning? Everyone, or just the choir?
- Use our new for 2025 Practical Guide to Net Zero Carbon for Churches to help you through lots of potential measures to save energy and reduce carbon.
- Get some expert advice. You can ask your DAC, your QI architect, or get an independent energy audit. This will give you a summary of the likely measures suitable in your church.
- Check what grants are available on our website.
- And finally have a nice cup of tea and celebrate everything you have done!
Check out the national churches brand new guide to help you get started!
Please get in touch to find out more about joining our Net Zero Carbon 2030 programme for churches – email: nzc@faiths4change.org.uk
Need support or have questions with the technical aspects of your net zero carbon journey? Contact Phil Leigh, our Net Zero Carbon 2030 Programme Lead and Diocesan Environmental Officer: phil.leigh@liverpool.anglican.org
Find further advice and guidance here:
With thanks to our Net Zero Carbon 2030 programme funders the Benefact Trust, and partners Faiths4Change, Harbour Project Management, and the Church of England.
Supported by Benefact Trust
With thanks to our Net Zero Carbon 2030 programme funders the Benefact Trust, and partners Faiths4Change, Harbour Project Management, and the Church of England.
