Strong government policies and decisive Change by corporations are needed to cut our emissions and change our trajectory . But private individuals and families can make a significant difference to our emissions as well . It is estimated that Australian households are directly responsible for between 12 % and 20 % of Australia ’ s total greenhouse gas emissions . 2,3 This comes mainly from transport and energy use in the home , as well as our diet .
As well as contributing to overall reductions , our actions to limit carbon emissions may encourage others to make changes . Acting together , we can meet the substantial challenges posed by global warming and create a promising future for ourselves , those that follow and the whole planet .
The Synod ’ s 2019 resolution that established the Synod Climate Action Strategy commits us as a whole church to act faithfully by reducing our own emissions ( as well as calling on our leaders to do more to reduce emissions nationally ). The Church and Individual Emissions Task Group was established to support churches in that process .
How can you get involved ?
You are invited to participate in the Living the Change initiative . Over the coming weeks you can :
1 . Look out for information and tips on Living the Change and what you can do to reduce your emissions footprint . We will be sharing tips , advice , and resources on the Insights Weekly e-news and Insights Magazine , the Synod and Uniting social media channels .
2 . Consider , individually and with others in your household , church and community , what changes you could make .
3 . Begin to make those changes in your life and lifestyle and share them with us .
St Margaret ’ s News 7 December 2020