History

At the 2017 Annual Meeting, the Congregation voted to adopt Climate Change & Environmental Justice as one of our congregational social justice efforts. The Environmental Justice Team (EJT) has focused on 1) renewing our status as a Green Sanctuary Congregation, 2) reviving our Green Team, 3) educating the congregation on issues, 4) participating in issues such as member service and advocacy for carbon tax (with Citizens Climate Lobby), Water Is Life rally, March for Science, supporting pipeline protesters, and opposing open burning at Radford Arsenal, and 5) supporting Spiritual Care for the Earth. 

Solar Panel Installation

In November 2021, UUC had 80 solar panels installed on our roof by Baseline Solar. Eighty 400-watt panels will provide approximately 80% of the building’s energy needs. The panels are the result of a new power purchase agreement and green energy initiative that enables a non-taxable entity to contract with solar power providers to buy electricity generated on-site as a way to offset what such entities would have to pay for the installation. This is the first such install in the New River Valley.

Recognition for our Efforts

In November 2023, UUC was recognized as a Certified Cool Congregation by Interfaith Power & Light for “exemplary Carbon Reductions in Response to Climate Change.” 

Current Need

The Environmental Justice/Climate Change Team is in need of new leadership and energy to continue educating the congregation on current environmental issues and encouraging participation in meaningful environmental activities both within UUC and in the wider community and beyond.