Caring about our world

Public Policy Group

Environmental Policy background paper

Item 1

  • "To strive to safeguard the integrity of creation and sustain and renew the life of the earth" The 5th Mark of Mission (for further details see below) is the starting point for theological reflection and action on the environment. At the heart of the commitment is 'the creation covenant' in which God binds all together - all living beings, and the earth itself - into a web of inter-relatedness. Genesis 9.8-11 Isaiah 24.4-5 Hosea 2.8-23 2 Corinthians 5.17 2 Peter 3.13. The policy seeks to reflect a theological understanding of creation which recognises that we are called to be stewards.

Item 2

  • The Diocesan Environmental Officer (DEO) will report on a regular basis to the Chair of the Social Responsibility and Regeneration Working Group. S/He will in addition be supported by the Working Group who will monitor progress and ensure that the policy is being taken forward.

Item 3

  • It is proposed that parishes be encouraged to give serious consideration to the environment in their teaching and worship. Guidelines on how to review the footprint will be available and both parishes and individuals will be encouraged to keep discussion of the issues on their agenda. (See 6 below)

Items 4 & 5

  • We intend to address the issue of increasing awareness of environmental issues by a regular e-mail newsletter also made available though the Diocesan website. Practical advice will be given alongside regular theological reflection upon the social, economic and ethical elements of environmental issues.
  • Information and examples of good practice obtained through established networks (e.g. the Diocesan Environmental Officers (DEO) Network and The London Churches Environmental Network which will replace London SCARE in 2007) and other organisations will be summarised and circulated.
  • We will encourage parishes to make use of materials already available from the following organisations and the many others dealing with environmental issues from a faith and non-faith perspective:
  • During late Spring 2007 each parish in the Diocese will receive a copy of a church environmental guide being produced jointly by the Diocese of London and The Conservation Foundation. It is to be endorsed by the London Church Leaders group and churches will be given an option to obtain more.
  • We will encourage parishes to contribute with other faith groups to local authority policies on energy conservation and recycling. Experience in Tower Hamlets, Bexley and Croydon has shown the value for local authorities and faith communities in dialogue and collaborative working.
  • We will explore the possibility of holding an Environmental Conference during 2007.

Item 6

  • In addition to the environmental audits already being used as part of the 'Shrinking the Footprint' initiative, a more comprehensive audit, available from Eco-congregation, is being adapted for Diocesan use. This is presently being piloted alongside the draft environmental policy in four parishes and the findings will be made available with a revised version later in the year.

Item 7 & 8

  • The DEO will work with parishes and Diocesan structures to consider the environmental impact of all activities. Examples of good practice, and working policies developed in local contexts around energy conversation, transport and recycling will be made available for wider use. The DEO will work closely with officers of the Diocesan Advisory Committee and Property Department to provide practical advice on environmental issues such as heating and lighting and the financial implications of any new building legislation.
  • In addition, individuals will be encouraged to consider their life style and its effect on the environment. It is also important that opportunities are found to challenge government and society at large to take environmental decline seriously.

Item 9

  • The issues that arise from a concern for the environment can not be separated from the wider political dimension. To ensure change it is important that Christians are active in pursuing greater sustainability and challenging the consumerism that is prevalent within society. It is important that in this context that understanding be developed on the economic that underpin continuous growth.

Item 10

  • It is important that the policy is used to stimulate continuous reflection and action. To this end a review every three years by the Diocesan synod will ensure that action is being taken and that the policy continues to underpin the actions that are being promoted.

Appendix

The Five Marks of Mission of the 
Worldwide Anglican Communion

To proclaim the Good News of the Kingdom

To teach, baptise and nurture new believers

To respond to human need by loving service

To seek to transform unjust structures of society

To strive to safeguard the integrity of creation and sustain and renew the life of the earth

(Bonds of Affection-1984 ACC-6 p49, Mission in a Broken World-1990 ACC-8 p101)

Endorsed by the General Synod on February 14 1996

Social Responsibility and Regeneration Working Group
March 2007