The Energy Footprint Tool (EFT) is now open for submissions. Completing the EFT is part of our shared journey to net zero and supports the Church’s fifth mark of mission, to care for creation. The data collected builds a clear picture of our churches’ carbon emissions, and supports individual churches and the wider diocese’s decision making as we continue to take steps to reduce our energy consumption.
Last year 65% of our churches completed the EFT, up from 30% in 2022. Speaking about the importance of the EFT at the recent Diocesan Service for Creation Care, Bishop Michael said, “It is great that we have 65% of our churches completing the EFT, but it would be fantastic to get to 100%. That could be a game changer because it would give us the data to enable us to speak with authority.”
Find out more about the benefits of completing the EFT and other resources on the EFT page on the diocesan website or head straight to the Parish Return System to complete your EFT.
Dan Wills, Net Zero Adviser says, “By filling in the EFT, you highlight where energy is wasted and it may help reduce your energy costs. It can also enable you to take advantage of the funding available to make the changes you want to make to reduce your carbon footprint, so it’s well worth doing.
“Completing the ET doesn’t take long to complete and anyone with access to your energy bills can complete it. It is very straightforward, but there is also help available from the environment team should you need it.”
The EFT is just one way we can help care for creation. To find out more about the action people are taking take a look at our Caring for Creation booklet or visit the Bath and Wells website’s Environment section for useful information and resources.
A prayer for creation
Written by Sonny and Findley, St Margaret’s Church of England CEVA Primary School, Tintinhull.
Dear God,
We thank you for the environment and the wildlife that populates it.
Help us to continue saving the environment and keep the flowers blooming.
We are proud to have things such as bug hotels, wildflower meadows, trees and grass.
Help us to make things greener and cleaner.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.