Churches encouraged to save energy

It may be freezing outside but the Church of England is encouraging its churches to think about reducing their energy use.

Its free sMeasure toolkit has been made available as part of the Church's national energy audit and enables church buildings to understand and reduce the amount of energy they are using.

As well as reducing their carbon footprint, churches can cut their energy costs.

The toolkit was developed by Shrinking the Footprint, the CofE's national environmental campaign.

The online tool  requires regular meter readings to be submitted and gives users tips on how to save money and reduce their carbon footprint.

One church that has seen significant long-term benefits is St Mary the Boltons, in London, which even has a thermometer in the pulpit to make sure the church is the perfect temperature for the congregation.

The Reverend Ruth Lampard, Associate Vicar at St Mary, talks about the impact in a new CofE videocast published today.

The Bishop of London and chair of Shrinking the Footprint, Dr Richard Chartres said: "It is a God-given imperative that we guard the earth for future generations.

"This energy audit aims to build a better understanding of our energy usage and total carbon footprint for our national network of 16,000 parish churches, so we can support energy saving actions and meet our commitment to protecting God's creation."

News
The story of New Year’s resolutions
The story of New Year’s resolutions

1 January is when people traditionally start the new year with a fresh resolution. This is the story …

Young people more grateful to God, study finds
Young people more grateful to God, study finds

A new survey has suggested that 18 to 34 year olds are more likely to believe in God and have transcendental experiences.

Nigerian government accused of being in denial about persecution of Christians
Nigerian government accused of being in denial about persecution of Christians

How can thousands of slain Christians not be persecution?

Turkey arrested 115 suspected ISIS members, thwarting Christmas and New Year plots against non-Muslims
Turkey arrested 115 suspected ISIS members, thwarting Christmas and New Year plots against non-Muslims

Turkey has been relatively successful in preventing attacks since 2017.