The Net Zero Team of the Scottish Episcopal Church has been further strengthened with the arrival of Bethany Nelson as Net Zero Empowerment Co-ordinator.
Bethany, pictured, will be responsible for supporting the implementation of the Net Zero Action Plan by empowering dioceses and charges, through an inspiring programme of opportunities to grow in knowledge and experience of Net Zero.
Since its start-up in January 2022, Bethany has been the convenor of the Edinburgh Diocesan Environment Group. She will now hand over this role as she seeks to empower and encourage all the Diocesan Environment Groups across Scotland, in her new capacity as a Net Zero Champion.
“I am passionate about God’s call on us to care for creation, and to partner with the Holy Spirit in this challenging and important work,” said Bethany. “I am excited to start my new role at the Scottish Episcopal Church and am looking forward to expanding my experience across Scotland, bringing encouragement and hope for our Net Zero journey.”
As a student, Bethany spent her summers volunteering with A Rocha, connecting her academic studies in Biology with her living faith. After graduating, she moved to Scotland to undertake a PhD at the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, researching the impacts of environmental change on Scottish seabirds. During this project Bethany lived on the Isle of May in the Firth of Forth for two summer seasons, collecting data and immersing herself in island life.
She has spent the past ten years as a full-time mum, whilst also engaging in voluntary work around her childcare commitments. She has enjoyed volunteering with the RSPB, The Wildlife Trusts, and Climate Emergency UK.
Bethany has also developed and led the Caring for Creation ministry at St Paul’s & St George’s, Edinburgh, working to embed environmental thinking and practice into all aspects of church life. She leads monthly Mossy Church with the children and young people, and has helped the church to achieve their silver Eco-Congregation Scotland award.
Any Charges throughout the Province who are thinking about Net Zero or are already taking climate action are encouraged to contact Bethany to find out more about how she can support you. You can email her at bethanyn@scotland.anglican.org
