Green church initiative wins cross-party support

A groundbreaking Scottish green church initiative won cross-party support ahead of a member’s debate at the Parliament last night.

Over 50 members have backed a motion put down by Glasgow MSP Des McNulty to debate the Eco-Congregations scheme, as faith groups seek to lead the fight against climate change in Scotland.

The Church of Scotland said the cross-party support from MSPs showed that the work of churches has not gone unnoticed.

The SNP’s Jamie Hepburn, Central Scotland MSP, commented, "Scotland's faith communities have an important role in spreading the word about tackling climate change, and setting an example through their own practices.

"I congratulate the 200 congregations across Scotland that have already achieved this status, and look forward to many more doing so in the future."

Other MSPs backing the scheme include former Scottish Labour Leader Wendy Alexander, the Lib Dems Mike Rumbles, Conservative member for the Highlands and the Islands Jamie McGrigor and Green Party Leader Patrick Harvie.

The Church of Scotland is adamant that climate change is an ethical matter, and stresses that it is in a good position to lead a campaign of participation and change.

The Rev Ian Galloway, convener of the Kirk’s Church and Society Council, commented, “This is possibly the greatest single challenge facing society today and the commitment to which the Church would give the highest priority. We believe that all the earth is sacred and needs to be nurtured and protected.

“People are aware that something is happening but don’t necessarily know how to respond or how to adapt.

“The Church has a role to play here in raising awareness and being a catalyst for stimulating practical action.”

Eco-Congregations have rapidly emerged over the last five years, and the scheme registered its 200th member last month. The term ‘Eco-Congregation’ is awarded to churches that have made a commitment to address environmental issues in worship, in the management of church property and through community action.

People living in remote areas often demonstrate the resilience that the Scottish Government identifies as a necessary component of adapting effectively to climate change. In Westray (Orkney) the Church has played a leading role in its response both to reduce its emissions and to secure its energy through local renewable supplies.