Bishop Graham Usher of Norwich advocates for action against climate change as a moral imperative, emphasizing the Church of England’s goals to achieve Net Zero by 2030 and promote biodiversity. He highlights successful initiatives within the Church and warns of the necessity for ongoing governmental pressure to address environmental challenges, linking climate action with compassion for those affected.
The Bishop of Norwich, Graham Usher, emphasized the importance of combating climate change as an expression of Christian compassion during a recent gathering of Church of England representatives. He commended parishes and staff for their dedication to achieving Net Zero by 2030 and transforming churchyards into biodiversity sanctuaries, initiatives supported by the General Synod.
Bishop Usher noted that the Net Zero program is gaining significant momentum, leading to reduced energy costs for churches and promoting sustainability. He addressed the audience at the British Antarctic Survey in Cambridge, highlighting the urgent need for collective action against climate change and biodiversity loss.
He articulated a moral responsibility, stating, “There is a link here through compassion with Anglicans – with all people around the world” affected by climate issues. Bishop Usher stressed that genuine Christian fellowship involves caring for those impacted by environmental degradation.
Furthermore, he praised the Church of England’s Net Zero initiatives, referencing successful projects such as St Peter Mancroft in Norwich and the solar panels at King’s College Chapel in Cambridge. He underscored the positive impact of energy-efficient upgrades, such as solar panels and LED lighting, on churches’ carbon footprints.
Bishop Usher recounted his participation in the Anglican delegation at the COP16 UN biodiversity conference, emphasizing the necessity of continued governmental accountability in addressing climate goals. He remarked, “Climate change and biodiversity are two sides of the same coin,” urging the integration of conservation efforts with climate action.
The conference included a presentation by Dr. Beatrix Schlarb-Ridley, who discussed the climate emergency, specifically examining the alarming impacts of warming in polar regions.
In conclusion, Bishop Graham Usher calls for urgent action against climate change, reinforcing it as a moral obligation rooted in Christian principles. The Church of England’s commitment to achieving Net Zero by 2030 and enhancing biodiversity in churchyards exemplifies this dedication. Collaborative efforts to address environmental challenges are essential for global well-being, as highlighted by recent discussions on the interconnectedness of climate change and biodiversity loss.
Original Source: anglican.ink
