IPL’s kits provide all the resources and inspiration for congregations to become a Cool Congregation!
5 Steps to become a Cool Congregation – free guide
Reduce the carbon footprint of your congregation’s facilities with this unique faith-based guide. It includes:
- How to form a strong green team and inspire your congregation
- Suggestions for projects – what other congregations have done
- Resources for action including the popular 25 Steps Under $25, and 25 Steps Over $25 to saving energy in your congregation
- Energy Audits – where to get one and how to do it yourself
- How to apply for Cool Congregations Certification
Cool Congregations Contest Kit- coming soon!
Run a contest in your congregation to help your congregants reduce their carbon footprint at home.
The combined carbon footprint of all your congregation’s members’ homes is probably larger than your congregational facility. Try out the Cool Congregations Household calculator to measure your own household carbon footprint then use the Cool Congregations Contest kit (coming soon) and Household calculator to run a contest in your congregation. Give out prizes and celebrate! Add up the total reductions of your congregants and see if they can beat the worship facilities in lowering their carbon footprint!
In the Contest pilot congregation householders reduced an average of 10% the first year saving $200 on utility bills alone! The contest teaches about climate change solutions, saves money and carbon emissions, and builds community at the same time. It’s a win-win-win. Soon you will be able to order the kit here!
Cool Congregations Challenge
As your congregation reduces energy use, consider taking part in the annual Cool Congregations Challenge to win $1,000 in one of four areas: Energy Saver, Renewable Role Model, Sacred Grounds, and Community Inspiration.
There is also a category for Cool Planner for congregations that make an excellent plan to reduce energy use.
Your state Interfaith Power & Light affiliate can help. Be sure to let them know of your interest in becoming a Cool Congregation, as they will likely be able to provide additional support, resources, and guidance.