Why Become an Eco Church?

Registering as an Eco Church is a public statement that your church recognises that our world is God’s good creation and that we have been called to thoughtfully tend to, rely upon and partner with His creation. This public declaration is paired with Eco Church’s goal of helping your church identify practical steps (small or big) that are tailored to your church that help you practice care for creation in your context. Becoming an Eco Church is an opportunity to live out our faith in a tangible way, care for God’s good creation, and inspire your congregation to be part of a movement that is making a real difference.

There are many reasons to join the Eco Church network. Below are just some of the key reasons why joining the Eco Church network is a valuable step for your church.

  • Becoming an Eco Church affirms our biblical responsibility to steward God’s creation.  It signals to your congregation that creation care is an integral part of Christian discipleship and witness. It aligns with our call in Gen 1 & 2 to to strive to safeguard the integrity of creation and sustain and renew the life of the earth.

  • Eco Church membership responds to the increasing concerns of young people and also provides them with the opportunity to participate in the work of the church, recognise the relevance of faith to their everyday concerns, and gives them the opportunity to take leadership in actions your church commits to.

  • Eco Church provides tools, resources, and guides to help churches integrate sustainable practices into their buildings, worship, and outreach. Access to the Eco Action Planner helps churches set goals and take tangible steps towards sustainability. Resources are also provided to help with starting work towards many of the goals contained within the Planner.

  • Joining the Eco Church network connects your church with other like-minded communities engaged in creation care. This support can be crucial for individuals passionate about environmental issues who may otherwise feel isolated in their efforts to bring about change.

  • Taking action on creation care demonstrates to the wider community that the church is engaged in relevant, urgent global issues. It provides a positive witness to non-Christians, showing that faith and sustainability go hand in hand. It encourages other churches to consider their own role in caring for God’s creation.

  • Participating in local conservation projects fosters stronger relationships with the wider community. It provides opportunities for outreach and partnership with schools, councils, and environmental organisations. Care for creation also demonstrates a care for others outside of the four walls of the church building.

  • There is currently no cost to be part of the network.

1

Christians aged 18 to 40 years are highly engaged with climate change and increasingly concerned about its impact. They want to see the Church doing more today.

2

Silence and inaction on climate change fall short of expectations.

4

Preaching on creation care is uncommon and more can be done in practice.

5

There is a disconnect between climate change and core issues of faith.

6

Inclusive discussion, equipping and practical steps are keys for leadership.

3

There is uncertainty about the place of creation in the Gospel and mission.

The work of Eco Church is becoming increasingly necessary and important.

In 2022 Tearfund released the most comprehensive study of Australian Christians’ attitudes towards climate change and creation care:

“They Shall Inherit the Earth”

The study highlighted six key findings:

 Get Involved

  1. Sign Up – Visit Eco Church Registration to become part of the network. 

  2. Gather a Team – Identify a small group of passionate people within your church who can explore how you can take action. 

  3. Set Goals – Use the Eco Church Action Planner to establish practical steps for your church.