Christians from across Derbyshire are planning to meet at an open conference in the Church on Oakwood, Derby, this Saturday, April 21st, to discuss ways in which churches can respond to the growing threat of climate change.

The conference, called People, Planet & Polar Bears, organised by the World Development and Environment teams in the Church of England Diocese of Derby, will focus on the impact of climate change, including how third world countries are affected. Ways to cut down on carbon emissions and waste will be discussed. A keynote speaker will be Andrew Pendleton, Christian Aid’s spokesman on Climate Change and Developing Countries, and the day will include drama workshops. It starts at 10am and finishes at 1pm.

Diocesan Adviser on the Environment, the Rev’d Canon Donald MacDonald, said that addressing the issue was a fundamental responsibility of the church.

He said: “Many organizations, including the church, have begun to demonstrate their commitment to reducing their impact on climate change. We see it has become part of high profile marketing campaigns for many big businesses and this is wonderful to see. When we see the suffering that climate change is causing and has the potential to cause, it is easy to see why caring for the earth and its resources is a fundamental responsibility for Christian communities. This conference will highlight the problems and offer churches some practical tips for managing their own environmental policy.”

Admission to the conference costs £3 which includes a soup and a roll lunch, and tea and coffee.

ENDS