The Diocese of Bristol and Swindon has declared a climate emergency after a unanimous vote at its last meeting.

In response to the emergency, the Diocese aims to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2030 and has an ambitious policy to help achieve this goal.

It is the first diocese in the Church of England to announce this aim, with others expected to do so over the coming months.

Bishop of Bristol Viv Faull said: “Care for God’s creation is key to our Christian faith. Climate change hits our poorest global neighbours first and worst, exacerbating migration, conflict over resources and the spread of disease.

“As Christians we are driven to urgent action by love for our neighbour, our world and our creator God. Many of us are already involved in activity to halt the destruction of God's creation and bring about climate justice.

“By declaring a climate emergency, our practical action and collection voice will send a strong message. The situation is urgent. There is a need for us all to stop, to rethink, to rework how we act, to find all sorts of ways to tread more lightly on God’s glorious earth.”

The Environment and Climate Justice Policy

includes plans for 100 per cent renewable energy.