Most of us are aware of the enormous environmental challenges our world faces today. Global climate change,
resource depletion, pollution, and species extinction are just a few of the concerns that trouble us, both as
individuals and as Unitarian Universalist congregations. In response, many UUFWC members live out our Seventh Principle (respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part) by practicing environmental stewardship and making every effort to become better stewards of the Earth.
Our Building • In 2006 our new building received Leed Gold certification, the first for a place of worship in the USA. LEED (
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a rating system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council and is widely accepted as the benchmark for buildings that are environmentally friendly and healthy for occupants. Here are a few things that make our building special:
FRESH AIR: Windows open in all areas allowing cross ventilation which minimizes the need for heat or AC during transitional times of the year. All paints, finishes, carpets and woods used were low VOC (volatile organic compound) emission products.
NATURAL LIGHT: Multiple clerestory windows face south maximizing ambient lighting throughout the facility.
SITE LIGHTING: All site light fixtures are "Night Sky" approved assuring that we keep all cast light on our property and do not disturb the night sky.
EARTH FRIENDLY CONSTRUCTION: An engineered structural panel system created air-tight highly insulated walls and roof.
WATER SAVINGS: We capture rainwater, filter it, store it in a 1500 gallon underground cistern and then use it to flush toilets and irrigate plantings.
ENERGY USE: Most interior lighting comes from compact fluorescent and fluorescent tubes. Multiple lamp settings allow for the efficient supplement to natural lighting. The HVAC system (heat, ventilation and air conditioning) was carefully engineered to provide maximum efficiency while using 32.4% less energy.
reduce, reuse, recycle...
Alternative Energy Committee • This committee explores ways of integrating renewable energy sources at the facility. A photovoltaic solar installation is being evaluated as well as an auxiliary biomass heat source using recycled paper or wood waste.
Adopt-a-Highway • Volunteers pick up trash along a two-mile stretch of State Route #3 North. Contact Jay Klemme.
Inkjet Cartridge Recycling • Ink cartridges are collected for reuse at the Fellowship in the box on the Social Action table.
Contact Helen Ostermiller.
Cell Phone Recycling • Cell phones and accessories are collected in the box on the Social Action table. Contact Helen Ostermiller.
Green Energy Support • $450 of the Social Action Committee budget purchases wind energy credits from Community Energy, a marketer and supplier of wind energy throughout the U.S.
The Green Corner • A regular feature in our newsletter provides cleaning tips with environmentally friendly products. Contact Sue Gross.
Gift of Sight Foundation • We collect eyewear for the Gift of Sight Foundation who repairs and delivers eyeglasses to people around the world who cannot afford or access eye care. Look for the collection box on the Social Action table. Contact Sue Gross.
Quest for Peace • Aluminum cans are collected and recycled to earn funds which are donated to this organization for the purchase of school supplies and other necessities for children in Nicaragua. Leave cans behind the green shed on the driveway. Contact Joe Kufchak.
