Read our eco-tip on preventing food waste.

Please click here to see details on items we are currently accepting for supplemental recycling.

Please click here for details and FAQs on our NexTrex Plastic Bag/Film Recycling program, in effect from July 1-December 31, 2023.

UUCSH is proud to have attained Green Sanctuary status from the Unitarian Universalist Association. The Green Sanctuary Program, originally nurtured and managed by the Unitarian Universalist Ministry for Earth, was designed to give roots and wings to the vision that together, we can create a world in which all people practice reverence, gratitude, and care for the living Earth that is central to our lives.

It is a way for all Unitarian Universalists to join our efforts, both symbolically and explicitly, in becoming stewards of the Earth. A Green Sanctuary is a congregation that has received official recognition for completing the Green Sanctuary Program; lives out its commitment to the Earth by creating sustainable lifestyles for its members as individuals and as a faith community; and is committed towards creating a religious community that has a fundamental commitment to living in harmony with the Earth.

Here are just a few of the initiatives we have undertaken as part of our Green Sanctuary ministry:

Water Management

In 2012, the children of the UUCSH painted, dedicated, and installed a rain barrel to assist in water management for the Peter’s Brook Watershed. Our property is bordered by Peter’s Brook, which is known for flooding in periods of extreme rain. By participating in a county-wide rain barrel program, we are helping to limit flash flooding, which erodes stream beds and topsoil.

Education

The Green Sanctuary Committee regularly provides information and tips for practical solutions for the home, our church, and the larger community. We are also alerted to environmental action opportunities, such as seminars, events, and legislative activity. We are proud participants in Somerville, NJ’s annual Earth Day Clean-Up.

Interfaith Environmental Ministry

In 2018, UUCSH became a founding member of the local Mid-Central Jersey GreenFaith Circle group. The GreenFaith Circle includes approximately eight different faith communities. They meet bi-monthly to share best practices and coordinate efforts for environmental action such as stream cleanups, educational events, youth service projects, and more.

Advocacy

UUCSH partners with UUFaithActionNJ to actively promote environmental legislation that aligns with our Unitarian Universalist values. Recent actions include supporting a strong renewable energy portfolio, opposing new fossil fuel infrastructure, and supporting legislation that strengthens clean water standards in NJ.

If you are interested in learning more or wish to join this team, please contact [email protected].