Three parishes from the Diocese of Cork, Cloyne and Ross were among those recognised in a new competition encouraging churches to take practical steps to reduce carbon emissions, with the winners announced after the close of business on the opening day of General Synod. The successful projects were among the first to receive support through the Buildings Climate Impact Fund, launched earlier this year by the Representative Church Body and Benefact Trust.

A total fund of £300,000 (around €348,000) was made available to support innovative projects aimed at reducing emissions and encouraging more sustainable practices across the Church of Ireland’s property portfolio of more than 1,000 buildings nationwide. The initiative focused on projects that could deliver long-term impact while also demonstrating creativity, measurable environmental benefits and the potential to inspire other parishes.

Among the award recipients was Ross Union of Parishes, where Leap Church was recognised for the installation of heat pumps and solar slates as part of its efforts to improve energy efficiency and sustainability.

Youghal Union of Parishes was also honoured for work at St Mary’s Collegiate Church, where heated pew cushions are being introduced to provide a more energy-efficient way of keeping worshippers warm while reducing overall heating demand within the church building.

Kilgarriffe Union of Parishes was another successful applicant, with Timoleague Church of the Ascension receiving support for the installation of underfloor heating as part of wider sustainability and energy efficiency improvements.

The projects were praised for demonstrating practical and forward-thinking approaches to environmental responsibility while helping parishes reduce energy use and lower their carbon footprint.