April 2025 Eco-Church Update 

SRMC remains at the Silver Award Level on the A Rocha Eco Church Framework but we are working towards achieving the Gold Award. However, that will require the investment and involvement of many people. It is hoped to review our progress and recommend a plan by July.

The 5 categories remain as follows:

Worship and Teaching

Eco Church and Climate Sunday services held with Forest Church continuing to run monthly.

Buildings and Energy

Solar Panels with battery storage have been installed with a display board on the screens showing key data on energy produced.
Improved energy monitoring is in place.

The removal of trees from SRMC enables the planting of more insect and pollinator friendly plants and fruit bushes.

Community

New partnerships have been developed with Gibside Community Farm and Chopwell Community Food Growers.

The community hub on Mondays continues to attract around 40 to 50 visitors a week with the Cafe, rescued food market, Citizens Advice and the Community Health services all well used.

The Eco Church coffee morning enabled lots of books to be ‘recycled’ and raised over £250.

Lifestyle

This section focusses on individual actions regarding more sustainable living and the role of the church in providing information and encouragement in regard to transport, consumerism, food and so on.

We hope to find ways in which we can increase progress in this area.