The Green Sanctuary Team (GST) is Albany UU’s environmental and climate justice ministry. Guided by our Unitarian Universalist values and our commitment to the interdependent web of life, we work to build a more sustainable, just, and livable world.

Through education, advocacy, community partnerships, and congregational sustainability efforts, GST helps Albany UU put our values into action.

Green Sanctuary Team logo on a transparent background
Icon illustrating a rally to defend New York climate policy
Icon illustrating an advocacy day event
Icon illustrating the Share the Plate program, enlarged

What We’re Working On

GST members participate in advocacy, public witness, and legislative action at the local and state level, often in partnership with regional and statewide environmental coalitions.

GST also supports Albany UU’s ongoing sustainability efforts, including our solar energy project, recycling initiatives, and community-based environmental projects.

  • Climate advocacy and environmental justice
  • Renewable energy and sustainability initiatives
  • Recycling and waste reduction
  • Educational forums and community events
  • Partnerships with local environmental organizations
  • Practical resources for greener living

Our Work In Action

  • SHARE: Building a Healthier Future for Sheridan Hollow

    September 9, 2026
  • Tiny Partners in Caring for the Earth: Worm Composting

    September 6, 2026
  • Standing with the South End: Albany UU and the Kenwood Data Center Fight

    September 6, 2026

Current Initiatives & Resources

For more than 20 years, GST members have organized forums, Earth Day events, cleanups, renewable energy advocacy, sustainability projects, public witness, and environmental justice initiatives throughout the Capital Region.

Rows of solar panels on the flat roof of a brick building in a residential neighborhood

Congregational Environmental Actions

The Green Sanctuary Team supports environmental action within Albany UU, from solar panels and recycling to worm composting and reducing our congregation’s energy use. We also share information and create opportunities for learning through forums, news coverage, and resources such as our congregational energy survey.

Protesters holding "No Data Center" and "Stop Data" signs outside a stone building

Local Environmental Initiatives

The Green Sanctuary Team connects Albany UU with local efforts to protect our environment and promote a more sustainable future. We follow issues affecting our community, including the development of data centers, and partner with organizations such as the Sheridan Hollow Alliance for Renewable Energy (SHARE).

Marchers holding "Save the Earth" and "Green Sanctuary UU" signs at a march to end fossil fuels

Legislative Advocacy

The Green Sanctuary Team participates in rallies, lobby days, press conferences, and other advocacy efforts to support strong environmental policies. Recent efforts have included defending New York’s Climate Law, advocating for the Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act and the NY HEAT Act, and participating in events such as the March to End Fossil Fuels and NY Renews rallies.

Icon illustrating the Share the Plate program, enlarged

Community Partners

The Green Sanctuary Team works alongside local and regional organizations that share our commitment to environmental sustainability, climate action, and environmental justice. Our partners include groups working on renewable energy, waste reduction, climate advocacy, sustainable communities, and interfaith environmental action. Explore these organizations to learn more about local opportunities to protect our environment and build a more sustainable future.

Get Involved in Keeping Our World Safe

Whether you are a longtime environmental advocate or simply looking for ways to make a difference, there are many ways to participate.

Join us for a meeting, event, or project and help Albany UU care for our community and our planet.