Green Congreation Program:
Buildings and Grounds

Ideally, the physical plant of the parish and its grounds should serve as a model for ecological responsibility. This concept of model is rooted in the vision of the church as an alternative community. In contrast to an understanding of the church that fits into the culture around us, we argue for an understanding of the church that would make the church a model for an alternative way of life. If the society believes we can use pesticides without harming people, the church will face up to such a denial of responsibility and do something about it. If the society is willing to put comfort and ease above the need to limit emissions that increase global warming, the church will seek earth-friendly alternatives. If the society believes that we can be a “use and waste” society, the church will seek to approach 100% recycling/reuse of its waste. The contrasts can be proliferated further, but the point is clear. The church will make moral and theological reflections on its ecological responsibilities and then choose to be a community that is alternative to the prevailing popular wisdom.

Building and Grounds:
Reflection: why caring for creation can be expressed in the church's grounds
Action Plan: ideas on how you can do this
Resources: to help you do this

See these printable and complete manuals:
Environmental Guide for Congregations, Their Buildings and Grounds (pdf).
and
Building a Firm Foundation: 'Green' Building Toolkit: