Taking Action on Climate Change: A Call from the Bishop of Norwich

Bishop Graham Usher, the Bishop of Norwich, advocates for climate action as a moral imperative, emphasizing compassion for those impacted by the climate crisis. He highlights the Church of England’s initiatives towards achieving Net Zero by 2030 and enhancing biodiversity in churchyards. His call to action aligns climate change and biodiversity loss, urging churches to adopt sustainable practices while pressing governments for accountability.

In a recent address, the Bishop of Norwich, Graham Usher, emphasized the importance of taking action against climate change and biodiversity loss, describing these efforts as the ‘right thing to do.’ He expressed that acting with compassion towards vulnerable populations affected by the climate crisis is integral to the Christian faith. This statement was made at a gathering of Church of England diocesan representatives, where he lauded their commitment to achieving Net Zero by 2030 and enhancing biodiversity in churchyards.

Bishop Usher noted the growing momentum of the Net Zero initiative, which has already led to significant energy savings for churches while promoting sustainability. He articulated this perspective at an event held at the British Antarctic Survey in Cambridge, attended by over 120 environmental and Net Zero officers from various dioceses and ecumenical groups.

He remarked on the connection between compassion and climate action, stating, “There is a link here through compassion with Anglicans – with all people around the world – many of whom are on the frontline of climate change and biodiversity loss.” He emphasized that true faith encompasses a responsibility for global issues impacting communities.

During his address, Bishop Usher highlighted notable accomplishments within the Church of England’s Net Zero program, specifically mentioning St Peter Mancroft in Norwich as a leading example of energy efficiency. He also referenced the installation of solar panels at King’s College Chapel in Cambridge as a proactive measure that can benefit churches’ environmental practices.

He urged churches to consider various sustainable modifications, from solar panel installations to the implementation of energy-efficient LED lighting, which can significantly reduce carbon emissions in both rural and urban settings. His remarks drew on his participation in the Cop16 United Nations biodiversity conference, where he stressed the urgent need for cohesive action to address climate challenges.

Bishop Usher warned that climate change and biodiversity loss are deeply intertwined, stating, “Climate change and biodiversity are two sides of the same coin.” He asserted that efforts in environmental protection cannot be effective without simultaneous action on climate change. The gathering also included a presentation by Dr. Beatrix Schlarb-Ridley from the British Antarctic Survey, who provided insights on the climate change crisis, particularly in polar regions.

The Bishop of Norwich, Graham Usher, underscores the imperative of addressing climate change and biodiversity loss as a moral duty rooted in Christian compassion. His address highlights the progress of the Church of England’s efforts to achieve Net Zero by 2030 and underscores the interconnectedness of climate action with the preservation of biodiversity. By advocating for sustainable practices and urging continued governmental pressure, he calls for collective responsibility in facing these pressing global challenges.

Original Source: anglican.ink