In 2006, the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) recognized the urgent need to reduce the threat of climate change and passed a resolution asking all Presbyterians to “make a bold witness by aspiring to lead carbon neutral lives.”  Carbon neutrality requires us to reduce energy consumption that releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and purchase carbon offsets to compensate for carbon emissions that we cannot eliminate.

How can you “make a bold witness?”

Reduce, reuse, recycle, retool, rethink!

• Recycle: What can you recycle?  When and where can you do it?  To find out, log on to the Montgomery County recycling site.
• Make your home more energy efficient:  You can save money and protect the environment by making your home more energy efficient.  For information on how to get a free home energy check up with tips on low cost energy saving measures you can take, log on to the PEPCO energy check-up site.   For information on how to get a more thorough energy audit of your home, which may qualify you for rebates on energy efficiency improvements, check out the PEPCO energy star program site. 
• Use alternative energy:  Consider converting to an alternative energy source such as wind power.  No additional equipment or fees are required, you can contract for a fixed or variable rate per kWh, and your local utility will continue to handle service and billing issues.  Visit the EPA greenpower site to find renewable energy options where you live.
• Reduce your carbon footprint: Learn more about your carbon footprint and get ideas on steps you can take to reduce your carbon “footprint,” by clicking here.
• Get informed about environmental issues and resources.  Check out the following websites:  Presbyterian Environmental Ministries,  Presbyterians for Earth Care, and the Maryland and Greater Washington Interfaith Power and Light organizations.
• Join BHPC’s Earth Care Council and help create a sustainable future.