FCB Launches a Collective Effort to Eliminate Single-Use Plastic Items from Church Events and Programs

The disposal of plastics is one of the world’s most devastating environmental problems. A major contributor to this problem is the use and subsequent disposal of single-use plastic items. Their use is so widespread because they are so convenient. But the convenience they offer is far outweighed by the damage they cause.

There is a saying from the 1960s that still holds true today: “If you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the problem.” Our congregation is not an egregious user, but we do use some single-use plastic items in church events and programs. So, to that extent, we are part of the problem.

Given our UU values and our growing awareness of the damaging impact of single-use plastic items, we SHOULD be part of the solution.

So, the FCB Green committee asked the Parish Board to endorse a congregation-wide effort to eliminate single-use plastics from our church events and programs and to set the expectation that we will all engage in an effort to bring out the best in each other as we work to achieve this goal.

With a concerted effort, some imagination, and a willingness to try out alternatives, we can find ways to avoid single-use plastics. The recent FCB Auction event that was attended by over a hundred of us was, not the first, but a recent and memorable example of how a big event, planned with intentionality, can totally avoid the use of plastics (single use plastic drink bottles, disposable plastic cups, plates, utensils and table coverings).

Parish Board Endorsement of the Proposal to Eliminate Single-Use Plastics

Dear Members and Friends of FCB,

The Parish Board enthusiastically endorses the FCB Green proposal to eliminate single-use plastics from our church events and programs. While these items may offer convenience, their environmental impact is undeniable—and incompatible with our UU values of stewardship and respect for the interdependent web of all existence.

We have made sure our kitchen is well stocked with enough glassware, cutlery and dishes for all to use. We do still use some single-use plastics such as plastic bottles, cups, utensils, and tablecloths. That means we’re part of the problem—but collectively we also have the power to be part of the solution.

We’re grateful to FCB Green for leading this initiative. It will require creativity, collaboration, and commitment from all of us.

We encourage everyone to make this commitment as we take this step forward, together.

In community,

The FCB Parish Board