General Synod has called upon all parts of the Church of England to work to achieve year-on-year reductions in carbon emissions in order to reach net zero by 2030. Where can churches committed to the care of God’s Creation begin? First, churches are encouraged to complete the Energy Footprint Tool each year.
The Energy Footprint Tool (EFT) is an important resource as we measure progress towards net zero. As part of the Online Parish Returns System, the Tool enables your church to identify its carbon footprint, and its energy efficiency. For access to the Online Parish Returns System contact DanielBainbridge@manchester.anglican.org.
EFT surveys churches on:
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Sources of energy used in church building(s)
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Church energy usage
You need only provide energy bills for 2023. On completion of the survey, you receive information on your carbon emissions for your church building and links to tips for reducing emissions, saving you energy and money.
Guidance on using the Energy Footprint Tool
This new film explains how to complete the Energy Footprint Tool.
More information is available here Energy Footprint Tool
Towards Net Zero Carbon
You will find some practical suggestions to reduce the carbon footprint of your church building in this document.
St Thomas Newhey has made good progress on this journey and has developed a Net Zero Carbon action plan that identifies steps in the short, medium and long term to achieve energy savings and, ultimately, net zero. Read more about how they did it and the steps they are taking.