2023 Environmental Series: Our Response to a Creation in Peril
In celebration of Earth Day 2023, this adult education series challenged us to respond individually and collectively as people seeking to care for God’s creation.
Our Sustainable Community. Jim Babcock, board member of the One Earth Collective and leader in the Interfaith Green Network, shared updates on sustainability programs, initiatives, and policies, both global and local. He focused on steps our local governments have taken to address climate change, initiatives currently under consideration, and the impact of citizen involvement.
Learn more: Jim Babcock’s presentation: Our Sustainable Community
Our Sustainable World. Allan Fluharty, CPS science teacher and FOPC Green Team member, hosted two high school students that are doing exciting work to address climate change. OPRF student Manolo Avalos shared his insights on leading-edge sustainability practices around the world gained at the United Nations COP27 Climate Summit in Egypt. Nicole Benitez, President of the Ecology Club at Prosser High School, discussed the work and impact of the Prosser Community Garden.
Our Congregational Response. After a review of work Fair Oaks has done to respond to climate change, we gained new ideas from two local congregations. Judy Klem, Executive Director of the Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory and President of Oak Park Temple’s Board of Directors, and Mary Margaret Bartley, leader of the Green Team at Grace Lutheran Church, discussed the innovative work being done in each congregation.
Our Individual Response. What can I do as an individual to be a good steward of God’s creation? Our Individual Actions, a discussion about actions one can take. Chris Marzec, FOPC Session member, provided information about Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG) investing, and his presentation included this video which provides an overview of sustainable investing.
Here’s a website that focuses on sustainable investing: As You Sow (values-based investment assessments and tools): https://www.asyousow.org
Art Spooner, leader of the Interfaith Green Network, discussed What You Can Do at Home (electrification and solar resources). His presentation included resources for information about solar panels, community solar, electric cars and electric appliances, as well as information about purchase options and available subsidies.
Learn more: Art Spooner’s Presentation What You Can Do At Home (electrification and solar resources)
Fair Oaks Green Film Night
The evening featured a viewing and discussion of The Pollinators, a 2022 One Earth Film Festival selection.
https://www.fairoakspres.org/film-discussion/
2021 Environmental Series: Small Steps to Saving the Planet
This four-part adult education series focused on the benefits of native plants, the money-saving use of community solar, the practical aspects of recycling and composting, and how to welcome monarch butterflies to your yard.
The Zoom series was recorded. Click here for more information and to access the recorded session.