The United Church of Canada has announced their decision to divest from fossil fuel assets and to commit financially to renewable energy. This month, a vote was passed at the United Church’s highest body, the 42nd General Council to assert their commitment to the environment, a move by Canada’s largest protestant denomination.
“The United Church of Canada has voiced its concern about human-induced climate catastrophe for decades. Given the lack of political and industrial leadership to address climate concerns in a way that matches the scale of the problem, we wanted to signal that we are so serious about averting climate crisis that we are willing to put our money where our mouth is,” said Christine Boyle, the General Council commissioner. “Many in the United Church see Jesus as a friend of the poor and an advocate for the marginalized. Today we have committed to journeying in his footsteps, raising our moral voices to address the burdens of climate chaos that disproportionately affects those living on the margins.”
The bold move will see $5.9 million, or 4.7% of the United Church of Canada Treasury, reinvested in renewable energy programs after selling its holdings of the 200 largest fossil fuel companies. This is a move that follows in their decision to move away from gambling and tobacco companies years ago.
The voting motion passed for the General Council to divest follows a conference in May where oil-rich Alberta articulated a vision of Canada without fossil fuels.
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