St Bene’t’s Church, Cambridge: Faith-led action for a lower-carbon future

With a history spanning just over 1000 years, St Bene’t’s Church in Cambridge is showing how faith communities can play a meaningful role in addressing climate change. Guided by strong net zero ambitions and a commitment to protecting the environment, the church has embedded sustainability into both its operations and its wider mission. 

A commitment rooted in faith and responsibility 

The decision to move to renewable energy was driven by a desire to lower carbon emissions and live out environmental stewardship as part of the church’s faith. By choosing renewable electricity, St Bene’t’s Church has taken a practical step towards aligning its environmental values with everyday activity. 

SmartestEnergy Business was selected as the church’s renewable supplier due to its competitive pricing, trusted green credentials, and support for climate action projects. Together, these factors helped make the transition both credible and achievable. 

Using green credentials to inspire action 

St Bene’t’s Church actively shares its sustainability progress across social media, annual reporting, grant applications, and it's A Rocha Eco Church certification. These credentials not only demonstrate accountability but also help inspire the wider congregation and community to engage with environmental issues. 

Sustainability in practice 

Renewable energy is just one element of the church’s broader environmental efforts. Solar panels have been installed, green tariffs adopted for other utilities, and environmentally responsible purchasing introduced - from paper to coffee. The church also encourages the use of public transport and plays an active role in community organising around environmental sustainability. 

Environmental responsibility is woven into worship and teaching too, with preaching on Creation Theology reinforcing the theological foundations of climate action. 

Overcoming challenges with purpose 

Like many organisations, St Bene’t’s Church faced challenges around time, research, and in some cases additional costs. By approaching sustainability thoughtfully and collaboratively, the church has been able to overcome these barriers and focus on long-term impact rather than quick wins. 

Positive impact and looking ahead 

These efforts have delivered clear benefits, including reduced energy consumption, a lower carbon footprint, and increased giving from a congregation that strongly supports the church’s environmental leadership. The work has also been formally recognised through the A Rocha Eco Church Bronze Award, with progress underway towards Silver. 

Looking to the future, St Bene’t’s Church plans to deepen its involvement in local and national environmental initiatives. Its advice to others is clear and considered: “Take the time to do it right and well, rather than just greenwashing.” 

By keeping sustainability positive, purposeful, and rooted in its values, St Bene’t’s Church demonstrates how faith-led action can help shape a more sustainable future.