Why Your Church Should be Green

By Robert C. Foreman, AIA, LEED AP
 

 

Green is more than just a color. Today, "green" means better for the environment, more energy efficient, and more responsible stewardship of resources. Some people may have negative connotations to the idea of going green, associating it with a political agenda. Churches should take concern about the environment seriously. It is the right thing to do. Taking better care of God's creation and treating others as we would want to be treated are moral concepts Christians should clearly understand. Another good reason is simply better stewardship of the church's financial resources. Being "Green" can save the church money and reduce impact on natural resources. This will free up more money for ministry. Being environmentally friendly should be seen as an investment with a guaranteed rate of return on the investment. "Investment" and "rate of return" are words that may seem out of place when talking about the church. Whatever you call it, investing a little money today in the right ways can save a whole lot more money in the future.  Reduced operation and maintenance costs and better use of natural resources are long term benefits that should be viewed by the church as part of good stewardship.

There are many ways that churches can become "greener". 

1.        When building or renovating, use an architect and a contractor who are committed to designing and building more efficient buildings. Make sure they understand your wishes to be environmentally friendly. Set specific goals for energy efficiency and be sure they are implemented.

2.       Consider using one of the green certification methods such as LEED Certification for new construction or renovation. Although not for everyone, certification through the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Program is a way to know in quantifiable terms that your building meets the highest standards for environmental quality and energy efficiency. Look for an architect who is a LEED Accredited Professional. More information about LEED can be found at the website of the U.S. Green Building Council.  www.usgbc.org.

 3.       Have an energy audit performed by your local utility company or by an architect or engineer who specializes in this service. They will tell you the best ways to improve energy efficiency in your existing building and reduce utility costs. Consider upgrading older HVAC equipment to new equipment with higher energy efficiency or have a plan in place to do so when the equipment wears out and must be replaced.

4.        Replace inefficient older light fixtures with more energy efficient fixtures. Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescents or LED bulbs. Replace or upgrade fluorescent fixtures to the more efficient T-5 fixtures.

5.        Reduce electricity use by installing motion detector light switches in classrooms, toilets, offices and other rooms where lights often are left on. Use timers and photo cells to control outside lights. Educate your staff and members to turn off lights that are not needed.

6.        Install programmable set-back thermostats to control HVAC equipment. In larger churches consider installation of a single computer based control system that controls all HVAC equipment.

7.        Replace old single glazed windows with double pane windows with high efficiency glass. Consider storm windows if new windows cost more than you want to spend.  A significant portion of a building's energy efficiency depends on the windows. 

8.        In some parts of the country where water is in short supply, churches should consider ways of reducing water consumption. Older toilets can be replaced with low flow fixtures. Urinals can be replaced with waterless or low flow urinals.  Outdoor irrigation can be reduced or eliminated and other water conservation methods can be adopted.

There are many ways to improve the energy efficiency and reduce the environmental impact of your existing buildings. You may need expert advice to know which steps will really make a difference. The architect you select to design a new expansion project should be knowledgeable about how to make buildings energy efficient and "environmentally friendly".  Whether you renovate, expand, or build a new facility, the key is working with professionals who know how to design and build your facilities to be "green."