Resolved that this Convention call upon the Diocese of Massachusetts to evaluate the use of pesticides and other toxic chemicals for pest control in parish and Diocesan buildings and grounds and to institute the use of alternatives, recognizing that children are the population most susceptible to toxins; and be it further

Resolved that the Committee on Faith and Environment provide resources and support; and be it further

Resolved, that this Convention will call upon the General Convention of the National Church to urge congregations, dioceses, provinces and all church institutions to initiate a plan in the next triennium for the management of Church buildings and grounds that phases out the use of pesticides and other toxic chemicals to control pests and institutes the use of alternatives, recognizing that children are the population most susceptible to toxins.

This resolution will position the Episcopal Church in solidarity with schools, municipalities, public health officials and citizen groups that are concerned with pesticides’ effects on the health of vulnerable populations and implementing institutional practices to control them.  

Statement Against 
Existing regulations require warnings preceding pesticide application and are sufficient.   Property committees have enough to handle with aging buildings and deferred maintenance.

Impact Statement
The Committee on Faith and the Environment will provide resources about alternative substances and methods for pest control.  CFE will follow and track several parishes’ experience and report on the results.  This can be accomplished under the existing budget.