In 2011, our Renewable Energy and Conservation Committee undertook a major project to evaluate the possibility of solar energy at our church. Following extensive study of the options, our church voted unanimously to install a solar array on the roof of McColl Hall.
Our Renewable Energy and Conservation Committee commissioned a third party energy audit of our church facility. As a result of the audit, we are implementing a number of energy saving projects and monitoring the results.
We are making an effort to reduce food packaging like foam cups and plates for coffee hour and church functions. Instead we are using reusable mugs and plates.
We are increasing our recycling and composting efforts. Additional recycling bins have been placed around the church, and we now are participating in the City run composting program.
All of our paper washroom supplies are made with 100% recycled content and are Green Seal certified. Our hand soaps and most of our cleaning products are also environmentally friendly and certified by a third party organization.
In 2011, Cooke's Portsmouth entered into a partnership with the Calvin Park Community Garden Group. We have converted our back yard into a beautiful community garden. The garden group uses sustainable growing practices without pesticides.
These steps represent a significant commitment on the part of this faith community to take into account our environmental impact, and make significant changes in the way we do things to reduce our footprint.