Caring for God’s world is part of our everyday faith as Christians, and it’s something we care deeply about in the diocese.
Many of our churches have already registered with A Rocha as Eco Churches and achieved status from bronze through to gold, but we thought it might be helpful for those churches who haven’t yet begun their Eco Church journey to see how easy it is to get started.
What is Eco Church?
Eco Church is a free environmental award scheme run by A Rocha UK that helps churches put care for God’s creation at the heart of their worship, mission, and daily life.
It provides a framework for churches to assess and improve their environmental impact across five key areas: worship and teaching, buildings and energy, land and nature, community and global engagement, and the lifestyle of the congregation.
Churches can work towards Bronze, Silver, and Gold Eco Church awards, demonstrating their commitment to tackling climate change, restoring nature, and living out Christian faith through practical action.
How Eco Church Works
Register your church
Create an account on the Eco Church website and register your church. The scheme is free and open to churches of all denominations in England and Wales.
Register and read all about How Eco Church works.
Complete the Eco Church Survey
The survey is a self-assessment tool covering five areas of church life:
- Worship and teaching
- Buildings and energy
- Land and nature
- Community and global engagement
- Lifestyle of the congregation
It helps you see what you're already doing and identifies practical next steps.
Form a small eco team
Although not required, many churches appoint an Eco Church coordinator or small group to lead the work. They can help gather evidence, involve the PCC, and encourage your congregation and community.
Work towards a Bronze Award
Many churches start by:
- including creation care in prayers and preaching, such as a creation focused service or series of sermons
- switching to renewable electricity
- carrying out an energy audit
- reducing waste and single-use plastics
- encouraging wildlife in churchyards
- supporting environmental initiatives locally and globally
The survey awards points for actions taken.
Apply for an award
When you reach the required level in all five survey areas, you can apply for the award. Your incumbent or church leader needs to sign off the application before it is assessed by A Rocha.
Celebrate!
Once your Eco Church award is confirmed, you'll receive a certificate, web badge and guidance on celebrating your achievement, sharing your story and taking your next steps. You can also order a handmade Eco Church award plaque to display in your church.
The Diocese of Leicester has made a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and helping to establish and maintain a flourishing network of Eco-Communities.
For help and support, you can contact Anne Scott, Deputy Diocesan Environment Officer, on AnneScott@htl.church
Or speak to our church buildings team for advice and information including environmental resources and grants.
Find out more on the Church of England website.
Find out more on the A Rocha website.
Read about our Eco Communities diocesan priority.