More than 120 people working to look after the environment across the Church of England gathered at the headquarters of the British Antarctic Survey in Cambridge to share ideas and learnings.

A two-day Connect 2025 conference (25-26 March), sponsored by Ecclesiastical Insurance, part of the Benefact Group, was held to connect more than 120 people from all 42 dioceses plus other denominations to share expertise on climate change, net zero and the theology behind caring for God’s creation.

Jonathan Walter, Net Zero Programme Manager from the Diocese of Southwark attended the event and said “It was an inspiring and informative event and also an opportunity to network with colleagues nationally in order to share some great ideas and experiences on our work towards Net Zero”

Sophie Roberts, Diocesan Environment Officer said “It was a fantastic two day meeting with others from across the country, exploring how we can keep creation care at the heart of our work. We left feeling energised and ready to continue building momentum, supporting parishes, and driving this important work forward.”

Speakers included Bishop Graham Usher, the Church of England’s Lead Bishop for the Environment; Beatrix Schlarb-Ridley, Director of Innovation and Impact, British Antarctic Survey; The Revd Preb Dr Isabelle Hamley, Principal of Ridley Hall, Cambridge and Alex Randall from Climate Outreach.

Speaking at the event, Bishop Graham said: “Acting to prevent global warming and biodiversity loss is the right thing to do and a sign of Christian compassion for those who are suffering as a result of the climate crisis.”

Bishop Graham thanked parishes and staff for their ‘hard work and commitment’ towards net zero carbon by 2030 and their support for churchyards to become havens for biodiversity. Both aims have been backed by the General Synod.

Julian Atkins, the Church of England’s Net Zero Programme Director said: “It was wonderful to see so many of our professional colleagues from all over the country – from as far as Carlisle and all the way down to Cornwall – join together to learn from each other.

“They’re now eager to take back these new ideas and connections to help their local parishes to deliver environmental and net zero projects on the ground.

“Our thanks goes to Ecclesiastical Insurance for sponsoring this conference and enabling us to connect to our wider network in this inspiring way.”

Photos by Brendan-Foster.

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