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Low-flow toilets were installed throughout the church. But FAMEís efforts didnít stop with their own facilities. The church developed a recycling program whereby these water saving toilets were replaced in peopleís homes and FAME owned facilities throughout the area. The program was immensely successful for the church and employees. Rev. Jackson commented that “it did so well, that the individuals working for the business were given the program and they continue to operate it.” FAME proves that environmental activism can create sustainable businesses and jobs. Water is an important factor in climate change. Supplies will be severely affected due to reduced snow pack in the Sierras and increased heat waves and droughts. Furthermore, nearly one third of our electricity consumption goes towards the transportation of water throughout the state.
Rev. Jackson said that the church made these changes to reduce their energy use. He continued and noted that “if weíre going to preach one thing, we must practice what we preach and set an example.” He said that the church has set an example for the congregation and that many members of FAME have followed their churchís lead by making similar changes in their homes.
He said that he was initially drawn to CIPL after hearing an inspiring speech by former Council of Churches executive director, Scott Anderson about the need for a faith response to climate change. Rev. Jackson has also been involved with CIPL on global warming advocacy. He was a signatory to our sign on letter last year to the Governor and Legislature, signed by over 165 Christian, Jewish and Muslim leaders asking for leadership and action on global warming and energy issues in California. He was also a supporter of Assemblymember Fran Pavleyís “Clean Car bill,” a historic bill that mandates reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in California vehicles.
Rev. Jackson commented that “We are all stewards. God made us stewards of the land, animals and sea. Part of our stewardship is to preserve and not destroy. God would be upset if he saw what weíve done today since weíre supposed to be in charge of it and not messing it up as weíve done.”
Thank you FAME Church for your inspiring and innovative programs and global warming activism!
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