St Hilda's, Warley Woods

This year has marked a significant step forward in our church’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability. Following the PCC decision in June to resume our Eco Church journey and aim for an award within 12 months, we have seen great progress across multiple areas.

In July, an Eco Group was formed, bringing together members of the church passionate about caring for God’s creation. At our first meeting, we discovered that our church was already at the bronze level of the Eco Church programme. By the same month, we were officially awarded the Bronze Eco Church Award, and since then, we’ve been working towards achieving silver. The group will welcome new members or ideas and suggestions!

A major milestone in our journey came in July with the installation of a new electric heating system, replacing our old gas boilers. As our electricity is supplied by renewable sources via a green energy provider, we are proud that our church is now net zero carbon neutral. This is a significant achievement, and it reflects our dedication to reducing our environmental impact, though we have lots more we can do to make the church and church hall more sustainable.

We have also taken steps to engage the wider congregation with sustainability efforts. Monthly eco tips are shared in pew sheets and on our website, offering practical advice to live more sustainably.

In a further commitment to ethical and sustainable practices, the tea and coffee we provide at church is now Fairtrade-certified, supporting farmers and workers with fair wages and sustainable and ethical production methods. We are working towards becoming a fully accredited Fairtrade Church.

Recycling initiatives have also taken root, with a collection box for unused reading glasses now available in the porch. These glasses are sent to BarnabasAid, helping those in need while keeping materials out of landfill. We are exploring other recycling opportunities to make a greater impact. Additionally, we’re thankful for Martin who continues to use leftover candle wax to make into new candles, ensuring that little goes to waste. If anyone would like to take on some of the candle making, please speak to either Martin or the Eco Group.

The summer and autumn months brought exciting developments in our gardens, aimed at boosting biodiversity. Thanks to Paul Carrington’s craftsmanship, bug hotels, bird boxes, and bat boxes have been installed. The Parakeet Playgroup contributed by adding a wormery to turn food waste into soil and planting an edible herb garden. Plans are in place to install a larger compost bin, further enhancing our efforts. Additionally, our flower arrangements no longer use oasis, a material that breaks down into harmful microplastics, demonstrating our commitment to reducing environmental harm.

In November, James was officially named our Parish Environmental Contact by the PCC, serving as a link between our church, the diocese, and the deanery’s environmental champion. His role strengthens our ties to the wider church’s environmental mission.

As Advent approached, the Eco Group introduced initiatives to encourage thoughtful, sustainable celebrations. A communal Christmas card notice board was set up to reduce waste, beautifully decorated by Elizabeth. We hosted our first Gift and Toy Swap to combat overconsumption. This resulted in a large donation of toys and gifts made to the Bearwood Community Hub, helping families in need at Christmas. The families that came all asked when we would be doing it again!

Looking ahead, we are excited to see the launch of a new litter-picking group in February! The first meet-up is planned for 13 February at 11am, with the aim of gathering three times a year to clean up along the parish boundary. Thanks to Fran, who has secured equipment from the council, this initiative is open to all who wish to join.

As we reflect on a year of achievements, we are grateful for the passion, creativity, and dedication shown by so many in our church and community. Together, we are making tangible steps towards a more sustainable and compassionate world.

As we look forward to the new year, let us carry this momentum into the months ahead, continuing to care for creation, serve our community, and work towards a brighter, greener future.

Prayer

Loving God, we thank you for the beauty of your world and for guiding us in our efforts to care for it. Bless the work we have done and inspire us to continue serving as stewards of your creation. May our actions bring hope to our community and beyond. As we enter the new year, grant us strength, wisdom, and unity to build a greener, kinder future for all. Amen.

St Hilda's, Warley Woods

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