“We affirm that God-given dominion is a sacred responsibility to steward the earth and not a license to abuse the creation of which we are a part. We are not the owners of creation, but its stewards, summoned by God to “watch over and care for it” (Gen. 2:15). This implies the principle of sustainability: our uses of the Earth must be designed to conserve and renew the Earth rather than to deplete or destroy it….

“People have long adapted their life habits and systems to the energy that is available to them. The challenge for us is to make changes voluntarily, for the sake of the poor and for the sake of God’s creation, before they are forced on us by world events. We can do this with some of the following changes:

“Live more simply. Most Americans can make lifestyle changes that will reduce their energy requirements. We can learn godliness with contentment and avoid being enslaved to materialism (see 1 Timothy 6:6-9).

“Use energy more efficiently. Most of us waste a significant portion of the energy we consume. We could enjoy many comforts while using less energy. Churches should lead the way in energy efficiency, and many of them are beginning to do so! Our houses of worship should be models of good stewardship.”

National Association of Evangelicals