In keeping with this policy we will :

• monitor and improve energy use
  
  
• inform and update all staff, parishioners and contractors on policy
  

• set targets for reduced waste generation
  
  
• include environmental considerations in decisions of the Select Vestry

• minimise the risk of land, water and air pollution
  
  
• generally apply sustainability objectives in all aspects and activities
  
  
• promote recycling within the parish
  
  
• attempt to make ongoing improvements to this policy

Since the policy was first published parishioners have been kept up to date with developments and other Eco-News through the parish magazine "Contact". Extracts from these can be viewed by clicking here.

If you have any questions, views or ideas that you would like to share with the Environmental Stewardship Committee please email us at molua.stormont@btinternet.com

ANOTHER ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD FOR ST MOLUA'S

Following hard on the heels of our EcoCongregation Award (details below) we won another accolade in the form of a platinum award in the "Let's Tidy Belfast" project in recognition of our parish's contribution to improving the attractiveness of the City. The Rector and Environmental Stewardship Committee members Chris, Kyle and David were present to receive the award at a special ceremony at Belfast City Hall in August 2002. Click here for more details as published in The Church of Ireland Gazette.

FIRST CHURCH IN IRELAND FOR TOP ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD

St Molua's has been awarded the EcoCongregation Award for Environmental Stewardship - the first church of any denomination in Ireland to be given such an award. The EcoCongregation investigating team were clearly impressed by the amount and scope of what has been done to date by the parish, in terms of a spiritual, practical and community approach to Environmental Stewardship.

What is the EcoCongregation award?

It is a programme for churches which is designed to help them in taking both spiritual and practical steps to care for God's creation. The award is endorsed by the environmental charity "Going for Green" and "Churches Together in Britain and Ireland."

Thanks to all involved

Warmest congratulations are due, first to the Environmental Stewardship Committee for all their hard work and enthusiasm and also to parishioner Desi Loughridge, our "green apostle", who has been the backbone of all the work. Thanks are also due to each and every member of the parish who has responded to our environmental approach and taken on board a completely new lifestyle. The Committee has also received advice and assistance from many other people, including Declan Donnelly from Arena Network.

Keep up the standard

Achieving the award is one thing, but now we have the task of continuing our work - both in and beyond our own parish. Due to a lot of prayer and hard work over the past three years, St Molua's is now known (among other things) for its work in the area of Environmental Stewardship. Having been given such a position, it is now up to us to spread the word and encourage other Christians to take on this responsibility for themselves, as well as further developing our approach within the parish.

Many thanks to all who have worked so hard to allow us to gain our achievements to date.

Lord of the universe, we praise you for your creation:
for the wonder of space, the beauty of the world,
and the value of earth's resources.
Keep us from spoiling these gifts of yours by our selfishness,
and help us to use them for the good of all humankind,
to the glory of your name.
Amen