Eco-StewardshipCare of God’s creation is our responsibility as individuals and as a congregation. The Eco-Stewardship Task Force began in 2005 as an effort to identify specific ways in which our congregation might support green efforts both in the operation of the congregation and in our daily lives. Presently global warming is an issue at the forefront of our minds. 1. Calculate your carbon emissions (or those of your school, work place, church, or presbytery) by using a carbon calculator. Try one at www.co2.org or www.safeclimate.net/calculator 2. Reduce your energy use as much as possible. Rocky Mountain Institute provides resources for saving energy, including Home Energy Briefs at www.rmi.org. Suggestions for homes can also be applied to church buildings. In 2006 our congregation chose to insulate the roof of our church sanctuary saving money on heat while reducing our congregation’s carbon footprint. The top three effective environmental choices for individuals are related to our transporation, food, and building choices according to the Union of Concerned Scientists. (www.ucsusa.org) 3. Purchase carbon offsets for carbon emissions that can’t be reduced. Purchases can be individuals or as a church (through regular budget or special collection). Presbyterians for Restoring Creation suggests several companies on their website. Word of caution – none of these companies are currently regulated. 4. Advocate for Policy Changes. Hundreds of US cities are working to enact the Kyoto Protocol and reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley has signed the US Mayors Climate Protection Agreement – the first step to becoming a Cool City (www.coolcities.us). Encourage Congress to pass effective, sound energy policies that address root causes and future alternatives. For more information, or if you are interested in working with the Eco-Stewardship Task Force, contact Luke Clippinger at: lukeclip@gmail.com.
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