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Publications & Resources
A CALL TO REDUCE THE USE OF TOXIC CHEMICALS
IN THE CARE OF PARISH BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS:
Submitted by the Committee on Faith and the Environment
and the Social Ministries/Public Policy Ministry Area
Resolved that this Convention call upon the Diocese
of Massachusetts to evaluate the use of pesticides and other
toxic chemicals for pest control in parish and Diocesan
buildings and grounds and to institute the use of alternatives,
recognizing that children are the population most susceptible
to toxins; and be it further
Resolved that the Committee on Faith and Environment
provide resources and support; and be it further
Resolved, that this Convention will call upon the
General Convention of the National Church to urge congregations,
dioceses, provinces and all church institutions to initiate
a plan in the next triennium for the management of Church
buildings and grounds that phases out the use of pesticides
and other toxic chemicals to control pests and institutes
the use of alternatives, recognizing that children are the
population most susceptible to toxins.
Explanation
A national consensus has developed that the common use of
pesticides and other toxic chemicals has an adverse impact
on the health of children as well as on adults who work
in agricultural or other industries where such products
are used.
An effective alternative to indiscriminate use of pesticides
and other toxic chemicals in the maintenance and rehabilitation
of buildings and grounds exists in the use of green practices
and integrated pest management using biodegradable and non-toxic
products. Integrated pest management (IPM) incorporates
the idea that less dangerous synthetic pesticides will need
to be used as a last resort. The objectives are to manage
more aspects of the pest problem in systemic ways and to
eliminate those substances posing the greatest risk of harm.
This resolution will position the Episcopal Church in solidarity
with schools, municipalities, public health officials and
citizen groups that are concerned with pesticides' effects
on the health of vulnerable populations and implementing
institutional practices to control them.
Against Statement
Existing regulations require warnings preceding pesticide
application and are sufficient. Property committees have
enough to handle with aging buildings and deferred maintenance.
Impact Statement
The Committee on Faith and the Environment will provide
resources about alternative substances and methods for pest
control. CFE will follow and track several parishes' experience
and report on the results. This can be accomplished under
the existing budget.
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