Early this year, more than 800 of us had our say on advice that would shape the country’s response to climate change for the next 15 years. The Climate Change Commission has now released its final advice and their amendments show they have taken public views on board.

“It’s amazing to get such a strong voice from Christians advocating for justice in this area,” said climate campaigner Alex Johnston, part of our whānau in Waikanae. “Out of 15,000 total submissions is a really decent proportion coming from one community [800 from Anglicans, 5% of the total]. So I think the perspectives that Christians were contributing would have really come through.”

The drawings sent in by children were particularly powerful and Climate Commission staff shared them around their office as an example of the level of engagement. One commented, “The fact that young people had taken the time to sit down and draw for us the future they wanted to see, that really resonated with our staff.”

One common view, shared by Anglicans, was the importance of a ‘just transition’ – making sure costs are fairly distributed and vulnerable groups are not further disadvantaged. The Commission strengthened its advice in this area. “In response to submissions, they added a new chapter about equity for Iwi Māori,” Alex commented. “They also emphasised the importance of education and reskilling for people affected by the transition.”

The next collective action for our Movement is to shrink our own carbon footprints (with God’s help). The Advocacy team is running a Low Carbon Challenge – three months of prayerful action for our climate – which will run from August to November.

“This challenge is for everyone,” said Advocacy Enabler Kate Day. “Your team could be two or more people from your household, church or workplace. It’s for all ages and it’ll be fun.”

Your team will join a briefing at Training Day (or watch later on video) and choose a goal that’s relevant to your context. You’ll then get support and encouragement from mentors and the option to attend inspiring events.

“The challenge is also a call to prayer,” said Kate. “It runs in the leadup to global climate talks in November. Our actions to love the climate will be an offering to God while we also pray for action from our global leaders.”

Visit the Low Carbon Challenge page to register your team and access promotional materials.

This challenge will also run through the Season of Creation (1 September – 4 October) – a global ecumenical season focused on care for the environment. The Advocacy Team is creating resources to help you mark this season in your context, including short videos, prayers and activities for children and youth. Mark this period in your diary now and watch Movement for updates.

If you have questions about these resources, or about the Low Carbon Challenge, contact kate@anglicanmovement.nz.