The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints continues to accelerate its efforts to care not only for people in need but also for the earth. Individual and community well-being are closely tied to a healthy natural environment, making environmental sustainability an integral part of the Church’s mission.
In 2024, the Church expanded its Sustainability Office, which coordinates global initiatives across six key priorities: promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency, conserving water, avoiding material waste, minimizing transportation emissions, designing and constructing sustainable buildings, and practicing sustainable agriculture and ranching.
—Patrick Kearon, the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
Humanitarian Work
Environmental sustainability is a component of many Church humanitarian projects. Food security, energy independence, and clean water access are all supported by greater climate adaptation and resiliency.
For example, in Sudan, the Church donated to the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) to install solar-powered water pumps and train local water committee members in proper maintenance and management. Meanwhile, in Kurdistan, the Church supported Catholic Relief Services’ effort to construct four schools powered by solar energy.
Materials Use
Across the Church’s US and Canada operations, all old electronics are diverted from landfills. Instead, the Church donates hundreds of computers annually to domestic and international charities. For electronics that cannot be viably reused, individual metals and other components are recycled.
At the Church’s flagship printing center, all excess paper scraps—from scriptures, lesson manuals, and other projects—are carefully bundled and returned to paper suppliers to be turned into new pulp.
In Latin America, Church stores are replacing plastic bags and packaging with biodegradable or reusable alternatives. Additionally, Peru-based magazine printing now uses sustainably sourced wood. In Brazil, some youth conferences are using recyclable T-shirts.
What Can I Do?
- Use reuseable or biodegradable bags and water bottles.
- Properly dispose of toxic waste, including batteries, medications, and paint.
- Learn to repair or upcycle products instead of replacing them.
Learn More About the Church’s Environmental Stewardship Efforts in 2024
How Do We Care for the Earth?
As stewards of the earth, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints supports principles of environmental sustainability. This is accomplished through a variety of initiatives and efforts.