The Investment & Glebe Committee has been asked to see how church owned land can be managed to the best environmental and sustainable standards.
Churchyards are important contributors to local biodiversity (the richness of plant and animal species). Some represent the best examples of semi-natural grassland in te country. Churchyards can be managed to protect or increase biodiversity and to act as green stepping stones as species migrate and adapt to live with the consequences of increased temperatures and climate change.
Action for PCCs to consider
Establish what habitats and plant and animal species already exist in the churchyard and draw up a management plan for different areas. Things that can be done to make the churchyard more wildlife friendly include:
- leave some areas unmown
- avoid using weed-killers and pesticides
- introducing nest boxes and feeding stations for birds
- encourage insects and hedgehogs by leaving piles of leaves and rotting logs
- introduce beneficial plants e.g. berry-bearing trees for birds, flowers for bees, moths and butterflies
- Encourage or introduce native plant species
- Create areas of beauty for enjoyment, contemplation and prayer. Place a seat or bench in a quiet place in the churchyard
Actions for individuals to consider
- Manage their own gardens in a more wildlife friendly way.
- Buy or make alternatives to peat - wildlife is threatened by loss of peat bogs and they store CO2.
What the strategy says about Land
Turn to page 3 in the Diocesan Environmental Stategy document.