Shrinking the Footprint Advisor

Summary

Activity	Supporting churches in shrinking their carbon footprints, and the Diocese in generating energy and income from its estates
Organisation	Diocese of Exeter
Dates	September 2009 - July 2010

Description

Previously, the Diocese had arranged for a number of energy studies of churches and church halls to be undertaken by Devon Association for Renewable Energy and Envision. My initial focus was on assessing these studies, to understand the recommendations, what progress has been made, the appetite for implementation, any obstacles, and what support is needed. I gave priority for support in progression and implementation to churches which have an appetite for moving forward, whether or not they were part of the original group of energy studies. This meant undertaking a number of site visits, advising on options for saving energy and renewables and on funding. In total, I made contact with more than 70 parishes.

However, it became apparent that more of a difference could be made by projects across the Diocese or group of SW Dioceses, such as generating energy from the Diocesan estate, and setting up an Ethical Energy Enterprise. Hence my activities were refocused in this area, and also to support strategy and planning.

My other activities included:

• Building up databases of grants and suppliers
• Developing case studies of any environmental good practice and success stories, covering: energy efficiency measures; generation of renewable electricity and heat; other measures to shrink the Diocesan carbon footprint; engaging with community; educating and encouraging congregation; any lessons learnt.
• Developing a resource of worship material with an environmental theme, and of material which churches and individuals could use to educate others.
• Developing a website for publishing advice and sharing experience; using success stories to spread word and help advise others - www.exeterstf.org.uk.
• Networking and co-operating with other organisations, such as Church of England central office, Exeter Cathedral, local councils, the Transition movement, Devon Churches Green Action (I also developed a website for DCGA at www.dcga.org.uk).
• Supporting the Church of England's Shrinking the Footprint programme.
  
  

Also...

While living alongside Mucknell Abbey in 2010-11, I conducted an energy audit of the local Parish Church in Stoulton, Diocese of Worcester.