Environmental Policy
In order to work out our faith and fulfil our responsibility for the stewardship of God's creation,
we commit ourselves to the following actions.
Awareness and Commitment
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to encourage HGBC in all our activities to comply with all relevant environmental recommendations for good practice
Energy and Water
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to ensure energy is used efficiently and wherever possible reduce its use
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to encourage the increased use of renewable energy
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to use water efficiently and with care
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to avoid pollutants entering the drainage system
Waste
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to reduce the production of material waste including unnecessary packaging
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to encourage re-use, repair and recycling of materials including organic waste
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to dispose of waste in a safe and responsible way
Materials and Resources
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to buy products which are made in accordance with the principle of using material in a sustainable way and to use locally-made goods as far as this is possible and practicable
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to buy products from sources that adhere to principles of fair trade with those within poorer countries
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to take into account the lifetime costs of materials when repairing, altering or rebuilding premises
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to maximise the proportion of paper used from sustainable sources and recycled materials
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to offer electronic communication as an alternative to paper for those who are suitably equipped
Natural and Built Environment
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to take appropriate opportunities to conserve and enhance the natural and built environment
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to engage with local planning developments where these affect the environment
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to encourage the renewal and enhancement of the local environment
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to be sensitive to the impact of church activities on the local environment
Travel
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to make every effort to reduce air pollution and energy consumption resulting from the use of the car by avoidance of unnecessary travel and the use of energy-efficient vehicles
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to explore undertaking the work of the denomination and local church in ways which reduce the need for travel particularly by car and encourage the use of public transport
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to share car transport wherever possible.