The Episcopal Ecological Network (EpEN)

Adopt Environmentally Sound Practices at Church Meetings

Resolution A044

Adopt Environmentally Sound Practices at Church Meetings

Resolved, the House of Bishops concurring, That the Episcopal Church adopt practical, environmentally sound and energy-efficient lifestyle behaviors that discourage wasteful consumption and encourage the recycling of material resources; and be it further

Resolved, That all future General Conventions of the Episcopal Church be models of the stewardship of God's Creation, and that the General Convention Office and the Planning and Arrangements Committee be directed to implement the following actions:

1. Provide recycling centers for newspapers, office paper, computer paper, aluminum cans, glass and plastics;
2. Use pottery or glassware instead of plastic or paper cups when possible;
3. Photocopy both sides of papers distributed to deputies;
4. Use recycled papers, non-toxic dyes and/or appropriate technologies for printing;

and be it further

Resolved, That, if necessary, registration fees be increased to cover any additional cost incurred to implement these changes, and be it further

Resolved, That the Executive Council implement these changes and other environmentally responsible actions at the Episcopal Church Center and any conference it sponsors to reflect (and model) a commitment and desire to restore God's Creation to wholeness; and be it further

Resolved, That all dioceses and provinces be strongly urged to take corresponding actions.

Author: The Environmental Stewardship Team

Source: Archives of the Episcopal Church

The EpEN is a national network of active lay and clergy persons within the Episcopal Church, USA, who share a common concern for the environment and a common belief in the presence of God in all Creation and who work to make these concerns and beliefs known throughout all Provinces and Dioceses within the church. Members come from around the Episcopal Church USA. The activities of the EpEN are focused on the areas of Reflection, Education, and Action.

If you would like to contact any of these groups or to find out more about the EpEN, please click on the links on the left.