Net Zero

Our Net-Zero Carbon Project

The study

In 2021, the nations of the world met in Glasgow (COP26) to address climate change.  We took part in local conferences and eco-fairs.  We wanted to see how our premises could be made carbon neutral.  We commissioned Environmental Strategies Limited (ESF) who undertook a professional study.  They reported in December that year

The transition to a net zero society is one which will take place over the next few decades, and it is extremely important everybody understands the solutions available 

Phasing

Gas is the main carbon user., so replacing our gas boilers would be our long-term aim.  We’ve been advised to start with ‘easy-wins’ first.

The biggest challenge for us has been to find the funds for all the recommendations.  Dividing the work into stages was the answer.  For Phase 1 we used our own resources.  This addressed lighting and draughtproofing work.  Other work would have to be paid for by larger grants. 

Phase 2

Through help from people in Wetherby, many remembering David York, who was one of the first to champion this project, together with Awards for All (£19,680), Garfield Weston  (£5,000), Give to Go Green  (£3,720), and Benefact Trust  (£1,750) we have raised £36,000

The Work

Phase 2 concentrates on the Church Centre, with solar panels and  batteries (£24,000), electric vehicle chargers (tbc), converting hot water heating from gas (£3,211), and destratification fans (£6,084).  Destratification fans are estimated to save up to 25% of our heating costs.  They work by pushing surplus heat from the ceilings to the place where people want warmth. 

The Future

We now hope next to progress towards wall and roof insulation to replace the gas boilers with heat pumps in the Church Centre.  We hope to apply for more grants and raise more money for this.

Consultation

We have conducted a series of community surveys.  There has been an overwhelming response in favour of what we plan to do.  A deeper interest in the technologies involved is apparent.  Our work will help everybody understand what they can do too.   There  is more to do, more funds to raise, the church building to address.  Exciting times.

*ROI = Return on Investment