The Diocese of Durham has joined a North East partnership which is dedicated to achieving net zero.
The Darlington Employers Environmental Partnership (DEEP) was launched last year to promote sustainability, share best practices, and encourage collaboration on green initiatives.
The DEEP network now has 37 member organisations, which include the Diocese and the other latest addition, Darlington Hippodrome Theatre.
Bethan Still, Environmental Officer for the Diocese of Durham, said: “Seeing the effects that rising sea levels, flooding, hurricanes, droughts and wildfires are having on already struggling communities prompted the church to think seriously about how we care for our global neighbours.
“We encourage churches to start by making small changes that can be done very quickly to improve the efficiency of the church building, like installing LED lights, switching to a green electricity provider, combatting draughts, upgrade to smart thermostats, and ensuring gutters are kept clear to avoid damp walls.”
DEEP is overseen by the not-for-profit Darlington Cares, which works with local businesses, community groups and charities.
Seth Pearson, director of Darlington Cares, said: “Darlington Hippodrome and the Durham Diocese underline the diversity of the organisations signing up to DEEP.
“We are delighted by the rapid growth of the partnership, and the wealth of experience, knowledge and skills that it now represents.”
Heather Tarran-Jones, Programming & Development Director for Darlington Hippodrome, said: “We’re delighted to join DEEP and share ideas on building a greener future. At Darlington Hippodrome, we’ve made a ‘Pledge to the Planet,’ committing to sustainability in everything we do.
“This includes minimising the leaflets and posters we print, using sustainably sourced paper, and opting for digital alternatives wherever possible.
“We’re also reducing our carbon footprint by working with local suppliers, promoting a cycle-to-work scheme, encouraging hybrid working to cut car journeys, and using automated lighting systems. Even the colourful lights that illuminate our façade are now all LED."
ENDS
Photo: Bethan Still pictured with Diocesan Secretary James Morgan after the Diocese of Durham achieved a bronze eco award from A Rocha UK in 2024.