Starr King UU - February Earth Ministry

We are underway with the environmental audit. But there are many areas that need covering. Do you have a hand in the following areas at Starr King? Remember that this is a snapshot of now. When we know what now looks like, we will come up with a plan for improvement that will be the Action Plan for our Green Sanctuary application.

• Energy Use: What is the average cost of utilities? What conservation measures are in place?
• Recycling: Is there any recycling going on here? If so, what type?
• Non-disposable materials: Does SKUUC have policies for the use of non-disposables, such as in the kitchen? What about the use of cleaning supplies? Are they nontoxic? If there is a cleaning service, are they being educated in the use of safe materials?
• Purchasing and investing: Does SKUUC have any policies about purchasing and investing? Are existing investments by the church in line with environmental and social values? (Note that Free Trade coffee is already provided at coffee hour.)
• Landscaping: What about landscaping policies using native and climate appropriate species, as well as use of chemicals? (Note that we are way ahead of the curve here already due to Carol Henrie’s great plan for the grounds!)
• Religious Education: What current religious education programs address the environment, both for children and adults?
• Worship and Celebration: How well does our worship integrate the wisdom of the Earth? Earth Day is a part of this.
• Social Action: How is Earth caring a part of our overall social action program?

What other environmental issues are a part of the life of SKUUC, in adult education or discussion groups or in the local community that might be the basis for a Green Sanctuary program or activity? Here is where we can get creative. I’m thinking of the Social Justice group’s efforts to stop the proposed Hayward power plants. Please join in this important effort! Our next meeting will be on Sunday 24 February at 12:30 P.M. in the Library.