1. Make it a mission. Make it a part of your congregation’s mission; ensuring that sustainable living will be practiced by all, and explaining why it is important.

2. Green group formation. Organize a green committee that will assess, research, plan, and implement green practices and education within the congregation and community at large. Use larger initiatives as a resource for support and guidance. (link to resources webpage)

3. Educate. Educate congregation about importance of environmental issues through services, lecture series, movie viewings, group discussions, books clubs, seminars, workshops, youth groups, bulletin boards, newsletters, and local media.

4. Reduce. Reuse. Recycle: Anything and Everything. Reuse scrap paper. Print on both sides. Install a rain barrel and make it part of the Sunday School lesson. Seek places to donate used items.

5. Conserve energy. Complete an energy audit (maybe a parishioner does this for a living). As old appliances, light bulbs, and cars need replacing, replace with more energy-efficient models (Energy Star certified appliances, CFLs, Hybrid cars). Utilize carpools, car share, bike routes, public transit access, bike racks. Install temperature regulators on thermostats.

6. Go paperless. Technology is a great tool and allows us to virtually eliminate unnecessary paper. Only print when absolutely necessary. Do payroll online with direct deposit. Send interoffice memos through email. Provide an online copy of congregation newsletter.

7. Buy responsible and sustainable. Buy local. Buy organic. Buy recycled. Buy fair-trade. Buy non-toxic, non-polluting. Buy a reusable coffee thermos and water bottle and even get a discount at select coffee shops. Do NOT buy disposables, bottled water, or Styrofoam. Use ceramic mugs for coffee hour.

8. Go green. Replace ornamental lawn with native landscapes and wildlife habitats. Compost organic waste to use as fertilizer. Plant a tree. Adopt a park. Plant a community garden and have a free community meal.

9. Get involved in the community. Support legislation that promotes conservation, energy-efficiency, and sustainable lifestyles. Talk with your local government representative (phone call, letter, email) to let them know how you feel about current issues in community and the country in relation to the environment.

10. Do it yourself. Lead the way by bringing the Energy Star Challenge to your community. Encourage congregants to follow more energy-efficient and conservation-minded lifestyles at home. Live what you believe at home and at work. Your example could inspire an individual to live more sustainably.