Christian Climate Action Subgroup

The Christian Climate action group has 31 people on the mailing list including representatives from both Cathedrals, 12 Anglican Churches, the Roman Catholic Diocese, 7 other denominations and Quakers. It meets every month to explore actions the Christian faith community can take.

Energy use in church buildings

We have recently looked at exploring carbon reduction in Church buildings, with a presentation from the local Chair of the DAC. The restrictions around having solar panels on listed buildings, including churches are now being eased. Four churches of different ages and sizes have also had energy audits carried out for free by the University of Portsmouth, which will be shared as templates for other churches to examine.

Greening church grounds

We have also been looking at greening land around churches, with St. James in Milton and St. Michael’s Paulsgrove having some exciting plans to involve the community in growing food.

A Rocha Eco Church scheme

Some member churches are participating in the ‘A Rocha Eco Church’ initiative. The Anglican Church has a bronze level and is working towards Silver and is nationally committed to Net Zero by 2030.

Climate Sundays and Festival

Climate Services were held around COP26. Various events held for Portsmouth Climate Festival, including a Climate Cafe at St. John’s Catholic Cathedral and a film screening and discussion at the Harbour Church.

E-Cargo bike grant

St Mary’s Church has been granted funding for an E-Cargo bike, which it will use for parish business instead of a car.

The focus of the group is on helping member churches to reduce Carbon Emissions, share resources and offer a support network in promoting climate issues.

If you would like to know more or get involved then please email either info@portsmouthclimateaction.org.uk or group facilitator Miriam Sampson on sampsons@dsl.pipex.com.