A Bit of Background on Climate Justice and “Carbon Footprints

UMC Social Principles

UMC Book of Discipline, 2008, ¶160, D. “Global Climate Stewardship”
“We acknowledge the global impact of humanity’s disregard for God’s creation. Rampant industrialization and the corresponding increase in the use of fossil fuels have led to a buildup of pollutants in the earth’s atmosphere. These ‘greenhouse gas’ emissions threaten to alter dramatically the earth’s climate for generations to come with severe environmental, economic, and social implications. The adverse impacts of global climate change disproportionately affect individuals and nations least responsible for the emissions. We therefore support efforts of all governments to require mandatory reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and call on individuals, congregations, businesses, industries, and communities to reduce their emissions.”

Council of Bishops of the United Methodist Church

God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action Pastoral Letter
“We pledge to measure the “carbon footprint”* of our episcopal and denominational offices, determine how to reduce it, and implement those changes. We will urge our congregations, schools, and settings of ministry to do the same. “…*A ‘carbon footprint’ is an estimate of how much carbon dioxide (a greenhouse gas) is produced to support life activities, including travel and home energy use.”