Oil and Gas Development

New! Over 70 faith leaders endorsed "Renewing the Ground: A Call for Faithful Stewardship of Energy Resources on God's Lands." Click here to read the statement.

Overview: The Real Cost of Gas

Our communities need energy to run, but what type of energy we choose and how we find and make use of that energy can have a great effect on God's lands. In the U.S. drilling for oil and gas to feed our dependence on fossil fuels continues to take a major toll on the land, especially in the West. In recent years, leasing of oil and gas reserves has increased on lands held in the public trust, and sensitive areas that hold cultural and ecological value are being opened to energy development. The natural beauty of the landscapes, functioning of ecosystems, and livelihood of nearby communities are being disrupted by pollution of air and water resources, erosion and soil degradation, destruction of wildlife habitat, and damage to human health. As people of faith who care about protecting God's creation, we can and should work to reduce damage to the land and the life it sustains.

Learn More

Read the letter to the editor from Rev. Bob Edgar, NCC's General Secretary, on the threats (including oil and gas drilling) to lands held in the public trust.

See the impacts of drilling on the lands and communities of the West. Watch National Geographic's short, eye-opening online documentary: Sights and Sounds of Drilling.

Hear the story of traditional New Mexico ranching couple, Tweeti and Linn Blancett, who's livelihood has been threatened by irresponsible drilling practices that are literally killing their cattle. "Range Wars Rage On," the fourth episode from the Sierra Club's Chronicles Series, is available for download from the web and on DVD (free DVD if you host a small group to view the film in your church or home).

Take Action!

Reduce Unsustainable Energy Use. Help create a market for clean, renewable energy and reward companies that are switching to solar, wind, and other clean power by purchasing it for your home or worship space. Many utility companies offer programs that allow you to purchase part or all of your power from renewable sources. Check with your local power company. If they offer a program, join it! If they don't, encourage them to start one.

You can also reduce energy development pressure on God's lands by ensuring that your home and worship space are energy efficient. Interfaith Power and Light (IPL) has programs across the country dedicated to clean energy and conservation. Find an IPL program in your state or region!