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Church of Scotland divestment campaigners, James Buchanan
Church of Scotland divestment campaigners, James Buchanan
Church News

Church of Scotland divests from oil and gas companies

The Church of Scotland has decided to sell its shares in oil and gas companies. 

Christian charities Christian Aid, Eco-congregation Scotland and Operation Noah have welcomed the divestment and called on the Church of Scotland to rule out future investments in fossil fuel companies as well. 

The decision comes as Glasgow prepares to host the UN climate talks (COP26) in November 2021 and follows the Church's aim to reach net zero emissions by 2030, which had already been agreed upon. 

The plan was shared in the Faith Impact Forum report to the 2021 General Assembly, which will take place online on 22nd-27th May.

Fossil fuel divestment has been debated at the Church's General Assembly every year since 2018. In December 2019, the Church of Scotland's Church and Society Council called on its investment branch to divest from all fossil fuel companies "as a matter of urgency".

Sally Foster-Fulton, head of Christian Aid Scotland, said: "We welcome the decision by the Kirk to disinvest in fossil fuels as it is a living example of putting faith into action. The effects of climate change make it increasingly difficult for fragile communities to escape entrenched poverty.
 
"Communities living with the devastating consequences of climate chaos have been consistently calling on us all to make the significant changes necessary to bring climate justice. Investing our money and our energy in renewable and sustainable resources is one practical way to respond."

James Buchanan, campaign manager of 'Bright Now', a campaign for fossil fuel free churces run by Christian charity Operation Noah, said: "We thank all the Church of Scotland members who have campaigned tirelessly to make this happen. It is vital that the Church of Scotland rules out future investments in the fossil fuel industry and supports a just transition by investing in the clean technologies of the future."

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