2025 has been a busy but encouraging year for the Net Zero Team. Diocesan Net Zero Roadshow events have taken place in six dioceses, with the final event planned for 31 January 2026 at Perth Cathedral.
These events have brought together charges from across each diocese, to share experiences and learn from external organisations who have supported the events through workshops and information stands.
The work of the Net Zero Team is being bolstered by a major grant from Benefact Trust, which has pledged £490,000 over two years as part of a wider £700,000 fund to support projects across the province.
This funding enables both “Pilot” projects — helping churches to develop plans and trial innovative technologies — and “Pioneer” projects, where already developed plans receive financial support for implementation — helping turn ambition into real carbon-reduction work.
Pilot Churches in 2025:
- St Ternan’s, Banchory
- St Peter’s, Stornoway
- St Ternan’s, Muchalls
- St James the Less, Penicuik
- St Augustine’s, Dumbarton
- Saint Andrew’s, St Andrews
Pioneer Churches in 2025:
- St John the Evangelist, Aberdeen
- Holy Trinity, Dunoon
- St Ninian’s, Dundee
- St Leonard’s, Lasswade
- St Mary the Virgin, Hamilton
- St Finnian’s, Lochgelly
There are a growing number of case studies, resources and funding options on the Net Zero Portal, which can inspire and inform upcoming projects both within and outwith the SEC.
Looking ahead to 2026
Net Zero Team is looking forward to seeing the current Pilot and Pioneer projects progressing towards completion in 2026. It will also be exciting to identify and support another group of charges to benefit from year two of the strategic funding partnership with Benefact Trust.
With two years of Energy Footprint Tool data (2023 and 2024 data) the Net Zero Team will gain a fuller picture of the carbon emissions across the province. This will enable better identification of which charges will benefit most from additional support.
Progressing from the Diocesan Roadshow events of 2025, plans are underway for a Scotland-wide conference in Autumn 2026. This conference hopes to bring together SEC charges, other denominations and partner organisations to share learning and experience from our journey to Net Zero so far. Look out for more details coming in the New Year.
Bethany Nelson, Empowerment Coordinator
