In 2008, the Australian Religious Response to Climate Change (ARRCC) was born – the first national organisation focused on multi-faith environmental action. Each year, ARRCC continues to increase the scope of our work – in proud partnership with individuals and faith-based groups around Australia. We measure our success by the number of people of faith we can empower to help create a sustainable future.

Achievements at a glance

Birth of an organisation

Recognising the ethical motivation religion provides for environmental action, the Climate Institute provided the initial funding to establish an autonomous multi-faith climate network. In 2008, ARRCC was launched at a ceremony at al-Ghazzali Centre for Islamic Sciences and Human Development in Lakemba, Sydney.

While we now operate independently, we retain a strong relationship with the Climate Institute – one of our sponsors.

Impact grows

Support for our work continues to grow as more and more people make the connection between their religion and the need to care for our world.

ARRCC is proud of our network of more than 500 supporters –people of faith who are concerned about the negative impact climate change is having on the planet. We now have more than 60 formal members, including 14 faith-based organisations. In addition, more than 400 people have asked to receive regular updates on climate news and ARRCC events as subscribers to our monthly e-newsletter.

Political action

As debate continues on the best way forward to curb climate change, ARRCC is offering governments a faith-based perspective and speaking out for strong action.

Policy positions - in 2011, ARRCC launched its positions on the Australian Government's climate change policies, developed through close consultation with our members.

Influencing policy – we seek to influence government policy through advocacy and lobbying activities.

Driving reform – ARRCC takes opportunities to contribute to government reforms that will contribute to a greener planet. Examples include our submission to the Henry Tax Review in 2009 calling for alternative tax arrangements to encourage commuters to cycle and use public transport.

Changing daily practices

Behaviour change is a vital part of curbing human-induced climate change. ARRCC is engaging faith communities in a variety of practical initiatives to reduce their ecological impact:

Ride to Worship Week – in 2010 ARRCC launched the inaugural Ride to Worship Week – an Australia-first faith-based sustainable transport campaign. Hundreds of people from faith communities across Australia answered the call to leave their cars at home and cycle, walk, share a lift or catch public transport to their religious activities.

Meat Free Day – to help reduce the environmental damage caused by animal farming, people in faith communities are being encouraged to reduce the meat in their diet.

Rewarding excellence – ARRCC believes in showcasing excellence and highlighting best practice in faith communities. In 2010, we presented 15 faith groups with awards for their environmentally sustainable practices. We continue to showcase such achievements – so that others can learn from them.

As a by-product of our shared commitment to climate action, ARRCC's religiously and culturally diverse members and supporters are also helping to create a climate of mutual understanding and collaboration in Australia. ARRCC's regular meetings bring together people from across the spectrum of religions – including the Baha'i, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Jewish and Muslim faiths. We regularly contribute to multi-faith events. We also join with the wider community to participate in climate action – through initiatives like Walk Against Warming and Earth Hour.

You can read more about ARRCC's achievements in the President's Reports delivered at each year's AGM: