Climate Action at Minnehaha United Methodist Church

As United Methodists, we acknowledge the global impact of humanity’s disregard for God’s creation. The use of fossil fuels has led to a buildup of pollutants in the earth’s atmosphere. These greenhouse gas emissions threaten to dramatically alter the earth’s climate for generations to come - with severe environmental, economic, and social implications. The adverse impacts of global climate change disproportionately affect individuals and nations least responsible for these emissions.

Journey Toward Carbon Neutrality
As a congregation committed to social justice, we believe Minnehaha must not only acknowledge this real impact to our climate and its inhabitants, but also account for it and be the good stewards of God’s creation we are called to be. Minnehaha has made important strides on the journey towards carbon neutrality. Thanks to the work and support of our Minnehaha Solar Committee, Apadana Solar, the Made in Minnesota Solar Incentive Program and many incredible people from our congregation, Minnehaha completed the installation of a 40kW solar array in October 2018. With the installation of energy monitoring tools in June of 2019 we are better equipped to evaluate electricity usage and target strategic areas to improve energy efficiency.

To mark the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, Minnehaha committed to significantly reduce our remaining carbon emissions beginning in 2020 through the adoption of the Xcel Energy Windsource program. In 2021 we reduced our carbon footprint by over 70% compared to 2016 levels!

Our Carbon Fund
In December of 2021, Minnehaha established the Joan E. Ellison Legacy Fund, a self-imposed "carbon fund" to account for all future carbon emissions (beginning with 2020) using the social cost of carbon defined by the US government in February 2021 ($51 per tonne). A carbon fund further incentivizes the reduction of carbon-based energy sources, and discourages the adoption of new or additional carbon-based energy appliances. We honor Joan's vision, dedication, expertise and resources given to ensure our solar array installation became a reality. We will use this fund to further reduce our footprint and engage with environmental justice issues in our region. You can help! Donate to this fund. Please include "Carbon Fund" or "Ellison Legacy Fund" in the notes field.

Connect with Us
Share your ideas and connect with the Climate Action Committee at: climateaction@minnehaha.org