We are stewards of a creation that is beautiful, fragile and entrusted to our care. To conserve it is not a burden, but a blessing and a discipleship journey.
2025 saw the creation of the Climate Action Group, bringing together colleagues from both the DBF and DBE to drive forward the Care for Creation and Net Zero plan. As part of our commitment to climate action and a reflection of our shared priority across the diocese, a Bishop’s Advisor on Climate Justice was appointed.
Nineteen churches newly registered with the Eco Church programme during the year. This momentum translated into tangible progress, with twelve churches achieving the Bronze Eco Church Award and three reaching Silver, reflecting sustained commitment to practical climate action.
Collaboration has been central to our progress. Alongside our work with external partners, pilot Eco Deanery Days connected more than 50 local leads, stimulating new registrations and award progress. Our new Young Eco Church Champion pilot project – aiming to empower young people to take eco leadership – got underway with four parishes; our pioneering practice from this project is being shared with two other dioceses and national church. Preparations are underway to roll out accredited Carbon Literacy training to equip congregations with the confidence and knowledge to act locally. We equipped parishes with accessible, high-quality resources to support both action and reflection. The relaunch of our Eco Echo newsletter strengthened communication and peer learning among our 168 parish eco leads, with one experienced eco lead describing it as “invaluable”.
Work with schools delivered significant impact. The DBE supported Woodford Valley Academy in securing Department for Education funding to install air source heat pumps. This provided the school with a sustainable heating system and its village with additional three phase electricity capacity, extending the benefits well beyond the school community. In partnership with Let’s Go Zero, we hosted online training to help schools develop Climate Action Plans, with further sessions planned for 2026.