Welcome
Bishop Peter
g n i c a r Emb ronmental Envi t ism Ac iv
For the sake of our grandchildren and great grandchildren
Last year, the Newcastle bishops supported the Lambeth Call on the Environment and Sustainable Development. We joined with bishops from around the globe in affirming that: “We have been gifted a world of breathtaking beauty, astounding abundance, and intricate interconnection. It is a world God declared good and loves.” We heard directly from bishops who were experiencing the ravages of climate change. Our Synod in 2022 expressed strong support for environmental activism. Slowly and carefully, we are embracing a proactive approach to the environment in our Diocese. We are blessed by Anglican EcoCare as it motivates continued reflection and action. We are challenged by our insurers. The weather is changing, and they believe our assets face more damage. One of the most tangible expressions of our activism is to change our investment strategy. We have decided not to invest in companies that derive more than 20% of revenue from the extraction, production, or refining of coal, oil, or gas. Our decision takes effect during 2024. This was not an easy decision because we are fully aware of how much our region relies on fossil fuel mining. Our economy is dependent upon it. We are not alone in this decision. Many Anglican dioceses as well as many faith groups are making similar decisions. The United Nations has estimated that religious institutions, globally, manage a combined $US3 trillion of investments.
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Encounter October 2023
The UK-based environment group Operation Noah states: The investment decisions that churches and faith institutions make are a reflection of the Church, its beliefs, and its values. Investing in climate solutions can be a significant way for churches to stand in solidarity with the most marginalised communities and with the Earth. Divestment is only part of our response. We state our position in our Environment, Social, and Governance policy this way: Newcastle Anglican accepts that climate change threatens humanity and our planet. We strive to safeguard the integrity of creation and to sustain and renew life on earth. We commit to achieving Net Zero carbon emissions by 2040. Initiatives will include undertaking energy audits and implementing measures to improve energy efficiency. We advocate for a just transition for people and organisations in the transition to renewable resources.
