The Hope of Solar and Renewables
At a time where our changing climate demands immediate and sweeping changes to our economy and way of life, renewable energy offers a ray of hope for a “just transition.” Listen to Bill McKibben, founder of orgs like 350.org and ThirdAct! tell us more about the role of renewables in the bleak moment we’re in.
For more information on how churches can be intentional stewards of their energy, see our Energy Stewards page! You can also view churches near you with solar energy on our map; look for the yellow lightbulbs!
Emphasizing the JUST in “Just Transition”
“I’ve actually been in meetings with Christians who have said to me: ‘Well Sarah, you know, this is the end of the world so Indigenous Peoples will have to take one for the team. We are just going to have to be able to take these minerals, so that we can save the world.”
– Sarah Augustine, Indigenous christian leader, quote from video below
As we promote a quick transition to a green economy, we recognize in humility we do NOT have all the answers. We represent many churches that enjoy the benefits of renewable energy. Yet, we know that sometimes this booming industry is done at the cost at indigenous lands and people– humans rights abuses in cobalt mining in the Congo, land degradation and displacement for lithium mining in South America, and more. This is cause for careful discernment. As we prioritize a just energy transition, we must listen for the Holy Spirit, seek out and listen to often unheard voices, and prioritize self-determination in the face of “green colonialism.”
Our aim is not to dissuade or slow down climate solutions, but to add nuance to the conversation. Some indigenous communities desire greater accessibility to renewables (see: Native Renewables) as a method of resilience. Others are on the frontlines of destruction. (See: Response to Blue Colonialism)
Moving Forward
The ELCA offers us wisdom from the Social Message “Earth’s Climate Crisis.“
- “Promote a just transition from fossil fuels to a clean-energy future that leaves no one behind.”
- “Support strategies that enable adaptation to climate change, including […] Securing and protecting the land rights of Indigenous peoples.”
- “Invite and engage all stakeholders to develop climate change solutions that are appropriate to their locale and adequate to the challenges we face.”
We aim to act as Jesus taught us, and ensure that the voices who are most often muffled lead us in deliberation. Below is a list of recent conversations, considerations, and organizations. Let us prioritize the matters of the Soul as we all walk together into a new economy with eyes and hearts wide open.
Follow & Share the appeal for to care for Apache Sacred Space – #SaveOakFlat
Indigenous Environmental Network
Balancing Progress and Justice: Mining and Batteries
Theological Connection: “A Lutheran’s Call for Economic Neighbor Love”