NCC releases report on global warming and bottom line 

Washington, D.C., October 11, 2006 – Regional church leaders from three states –Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Texas – tackled global warming and how to reduce overall congregational energy expenses at gatherings in August and September.

The briefings, sponsored by the National Council of Churches USA, were based on a report, "Bottom Line Ministries that Matter: Congregational Stewardship with energy efficiency and clean energy technologies,” released today by the NCC, outlines how churches can reduce carbon emissions, which curbs global warming, and reduce their overall utility expenses. The report details how churches can utilize both energy efficient practices and clean energy technologies such as solar energy.

"By utilizing energy efficiency and clean energy technologies, congregations can cut utility costs by 25-30 percent, saving $8,000 to $17,000 per year," states the report. "A bold commitment to pursue energy efficiency and utilize sustainable sources of energy can save money, protect God's creation, and be a powerful ministry of justice and love," says the report.

"Bottom Line Ministries that Matter" is available online at www.nccecojustice.org. It specifies state-by-state savings for churches that utilize energy efficient practices such using compact fluorescent lights. The report also outlines the financial savings from installing solar panels and a state-by-state breakdown of typical payback periods on solar installations.

"We believe that church stewardship includes a responsible budget and a deep concern for God’s creation," says Cassandra Carmichael, NCC's director of eco-justice programs. "Protecting communities from carbon pollution and the impacts of global warming is our moral and religious responsibility."

NCC Eco-justice contact: Cassandra Carmichael, 202.481.6928, cassandra@toad.net.

NCC News contact: Dan Webster, 212.870.2252, NCCnews@ncccusa.org