Discover How Our Church is Caring for the Planet: Inspiring Environmental Sustainability Initiatives

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believes in protecting the environment. They see it as a sacred duty for everyone. This idea comes from their belief that we are all stewards of the earth, and caring for it is essential for future generations.

According to Jenica Sedgwick, the Church’s sustainability manager, their mission reflects teachings from Church leaders. President Russell M. Nelson emphasized in a previous talk that we should care for the earth and support one another as part of this responsibility.

Under the Presiding Bishopric, which oversees various Church operations, Sedgwick focuses on integrating environmental sustainability into everyday activities. This approach means that caring for the earth is not a separate issue but a part of the Church’s daily operations.

Many Church buildings have installed solar panels, and more projects are on the way. For instance, in Africa, the addition of solar power has allowed Church buildings to be used for classes and missionary efforts at night. In Brazil, solar panels have sparked interest in the Church among locals, leading them to explore its teachings.

To improve air quality and energy efficiency, the Church meets local regulations. At their headquarters, they saved over $2 million annually through energy-saving practices.

The Church also takes steps to conserve water, especially in drought-prone areas. They have reduced water use by billions of gallons, particularly through landscaping changes. These new designs incorporate drought-resistant plants and smarter watering systems, tailored to local environments.

Moreover, the Church engages in sustainable farming and ranching at its welfare farms and investments. They emphasize reducing, reusing, and recycling to minimize waste.

For those worried about environmental issues, Sedgwick offers reassurance. She refers to biblical scriptures, reminding us not to fear but to act with love and sound judgment. She cites from Doctrine and Covenants that all things created are for our benefit and should be used wisely.

Presiding Bishop Gérald Caussé also highlighted the significance of caring for the earth during a recent conference. He described this care as a sacred duty and part of following Christ. Sedgwick connects this stewardship to love for our neighbors, showing that the Church’s mission goes beyond environmental care; it reflects the core values of love and service.