About JAEI:

The Johannesburg Anglican Environmental Initiative is a formal body of the Diocese of Johannesburg, seeking to meet the  challenges being faced by this generation with regards to the environment.  We believe it is God's will that we look after this precious planet we call home.

Diocesan Social Responsibility Portfolio

The Johannesburg Anglican Environmental Initiative falls under the auspices of the Diocesan Social Responsibility Portfolio (DSET)

JAEI Steering Group:

At present JAEI consists of a steering group and several portfolios such as Eco-congregations, theology and ethics, Eco-breakfasts and Spirituality and liturgy

The advisor and consultative group consists of a network of associate and permanent members representing various fields of expertise and experience in environmental matters.

Networking:

Many groups, parishes and individuals within the diocese are already involved in environmental projects e.g.. peace gardens, organic farming, use of environmental liturgies, interest groups and outings, waste management and energy saving practices.  JAEI would like to be both a further resource to some of the projects and also a network hub where people can share their projects with others.

Eco-Congregations:

Internationally the eco-congregation concept is an ecumenical environmental project providing free resources and support to churches.   Their resources are available directly on the world wide web - www.ecocongregation.org.uk .  Locally, Kate Davies has produced a booklet called  Creation Care, to assist faith communities engage with environmental issues.

In order to develop a long term and sustainable approach to the eco-congregation concept in the diocese, JAEI is approaching several parishes to be apart of an initial pilot project.

The eco-congregation material is essentially a toolkit which begins with a parish environmental audit.  The audit covers 12 areas of congregational life such as mission worship, theology, children's work, youth, adult education, property, management, land use, personal lifestyle, community outreach and global concerns.  They offer further modules to be used as needed depending on the outcomes of the initial audit.