Faith Community, Environmental Defense To Tackle Climate Change

(24 May 2004 — Raleigh)  Environmental Defense is joining forces with the N.C. Council of Churches to determine the most effective ways to educate members of the faith community about how they can help reduce the economic, public health and environmental impacts of climate change.  The organizations will begin their formal discussions at a meeting Thursday, May 27 in Raleigh.  The event coincides with a May 26 statewide forum on climate change sponsored by the N.C. Climate Education Partnership and the May 28 release of “The Day After Tomorrow,” a science fiction movie on climate change.

Mainstream scientists agree that climate change will cause sea level on North Carolina’s coast to rise by about 12 inches by 2030, inundating and drastically changing much of the treasured coastline and barrier islands and putting the state’s natural resources at risk to severe weather events.

“Climate change is happening right in our own backyard, and there is something we can do about it,” said Michael Shore, southeast air quality manager for Environmental Defense.  “We anticipate our discussions with the Council of Churches will lead to a formal partnership to educate citizens about the steps each of us can take to reduce greenhouse gas pollution.  This can be as simple as running a dishwasher only with a full load, buying energy efficient light bulbs, or turning off a computer monitor when not in use.”

“Stewardship of Earth is important to the faith community, and we can make a big difference in reducing greenhouse gas pollution,” said Alice Loyd, coordinator for the N.C. Council of Churches’ Climate Connection initiative.  “The first step is educating people about how their daily activities have an impact on climate change.  By working together, we’ll be able to develop meaningful strategies to increase awareness.”

Through its Climate Connection, the Council of Churches is planning a statewide conference on climate change in 2005.

The May 27 meeting will be held from 10:00 am-12 noon at the Community United Church of Christ, corner of Dixie Trail and Wade Avenue in Raleigh. 

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