As Net Zero Week 2025 approaches (5-11 July), Church of England schools across Hereford Diocese are leading the way, showing how to tackle climate change and reduce our carbon footprint. With nearly 50% of schools already committed to the Let's Go Zero campaign, the diocese is seeking to build momentum and transform environmental action in Church of England schools.
Let's Go Zero is an ambitious climate action campaign supporting schools nationwide to achieve Net Zero carbon emissions, working alongside the Church of England, which has committed to achieving Net Zero by 2030. This Friday, 4 July, just ahead of Net Zero Week, the diocesan Education team will host their annual Headteachers and Senior Leaders conference with the goal of increasing Let's Go Zero participation to 75% of eligible schools - timing that allows schools to enter Net Zero Week with renewed commitment for environmental stewardship.
The urgency of climate action and the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions have been brought into sharp focus for many schools through direct experience of extreme weather events. The school community at Holmer CE Academy has firsthand experience:
"We were flooded four times in the space of one year due to weather extremes," explains Jayne Maund, Headteacher at Holmer CE Academy. "It was very disruptive for our entire school community. It brought home the priority of acting now rather than waiting. We could all see the devastating impact of climate change."
Holmer CE Academy has since developed a climate action plan as part of their Let's Go Zero commitment, transforming the school environment, upcycling rainwater, installing solar panels, reducing single use plastic onsite, upcycling school uniforms and encouraging fewer cars at school drop-offs. Teachers have also engaged pupils in meaningful learning about sustainability and creation care.
The diocese is providing dedicated support to help schools navigate their journey to Net Zero. Ian Hill, Net Zero Project Manager for Hereford Diocese, works closely with school leaders to develop practical, achievable action plans.
"It's all those small changes which can make a real difference," explains Ian. "We're helping schools look at how to lower emissions and ensuring that when schools are developing building projects, Net Zero becomes a key consideration in the design, fabric and materials. We’re also trying to help schools identify funding, too.”
The Let's Go Zero campaign aligns perfectly with the Church of England's commitment to environmental stewardship. By taking practical action to reduce carbon emissions, schools are protecting the environment and providing pupils with hands-on learning opportunities about sustainability, responsibility, and caring for God's creation.
The message is clear: every school, every action, and every commitment matters. “We are leading by example, showing that action is an opportunity to live out faith in a practical, meaningful way and still be at the forefront of positive environmental change.” Adds Rev’d Steve Hollinghurst, Mission Enabler, Environment, Hereford Diocese
Our commitment to Net Zero is not simply about targets and emissions but about responding faithfully to God's call to "tend and keep" the garden He has given us, adds Rev’d Steve. Teaching children about sustainability connects them directly to God's ongoing work of creation care. They are helping to ensure that future generations can enjoy the beauty and abundance of the natural world that reflects God's glory.
For more information about Let's Go Zero or to find out how your school can get involved, contact Ian Hill, Net Zero Project Manager