The diocese is committed to Eco Church and became a Bronze Eco Diocese in July 2022. Achieving bronze status means that, as a diocese, we've already made significant commitments to creation care. Here's what we've been up to so far:
- Our environment policy has been approved by Bishop's Council and Diocesan Synod;
- 33% of our churches have registered as an Eco Church and nearly 17% have received an award;
- We've divested from fossil fuels and invest ethically;
- Church House Oxford is renewably powered and the new Reading offices are sustainable and energy efficient;
- We've added a new optional commission into baptism and confirmation services, encouraging stewardship over creation as part of everyday Christian life;
- We champion churches prioritising environmental initiatives and love hearing from you.
What's next?
In 2023 we announced a £10million investment to improve the carbon footprint of our vicarages and better care for its clergy. Since then, 100 properties have been retrofitted as part of our efforts to hit net zero carbon by 2035, with a strategy in place and increased capacity for delivery. Expenditure has been committed for around 40 houses each year to be brought up to EPC-C category, along with deeper works for parsonage houses where an oil boiler is over 12 years old.This programme will achieve an estimated reduction in carbon emissions of 30%.
We're also working together across all departments in the diocese to make sure sustainability remains at the heart of all that we do. This includes within our formation and training offer to staff, clergy and lay leaders, in our procurement approach, and across our land management strategy. We are seeking to achieve our Silver Eco Diocese award by 2026.