The Environmental Justice Group at FCC UCC is committed to caring for God’s creation and advocating for environmental justice in Maine and beyond. We believe that protecting the Earth and ensuring equitable access to a healthy environment is a moral and spiritual responsibility.
Our Role in Environmental Justice Advocacy
We actively support environmental justice through our participation in the Environmental Priorities Coalition (EPC), a statewide alliance of organizations working together for meaningful environmental policy change. As part of this collaboration, we advocate for legislation that addresses climate change, public health, conservation, alternative energy, and the well-being of our communities.
Through the EPC’s Common Agenda, we join other coalition members in identifying and promoting key bills during each Maine legislative session. This shared commitment allows us to amplify our voice, engage our congregation, and take concrete action toward a more just and sustainable future.
Connecting Faith and Action
Our church’s connection to the EPC is made possible through the Maine Council of Churches (MCC), of which the Maine Conference of the United Church of Christ is a member. FCC UCC member Jill Saxby serves as our liaison to the EPC, helping to ensure that environmental justice remains a core part of our faith practice and public witness.
Through MCC, we support EPC initiatives in multiple ways—submitting testimony at public hearings, sharing information with our community, and raising awareness through social media and local events.
Stay informed and take action! You can learn more about the EPC’s priority bills, follow their progress, and find out how to make your voice heard.
Click here to sign up to receive action alerts
Toss the Tanks – Imagine the Possibilities
For over seventy years, South Portland students and residents have lived in the shadow of the Hill Street Tank Farm—aging industrial oil tanks that pose serious environmental and health risks. The Toss the Tanks campaign seeks to remove these tanks, remediate the land, and create new opportunities for community use by 2030.
Why Take Action?
- Health & Safety Risks: These aging tanks emit pollutants, impacting air and groundwater quality.
- Inactive & Aging Infrastructure: Most tanks are empty, with some over 80 years old, raising safety concerns.
- Public Support: 81% of surveyed South Portland residents support removing the tanks.
- Community Potential: Future redevelopment could include affordable housing or green spaces.
The Plan
The campaign urges the South Portland City Council to negotiate with Suncor to remove the 19 oil tanks, remediate the land, and establish zoning protections for future development—all without city financial burden.
Get Involved
Help us create a cleaner, healthier future for South Portland. Learn more about the campaign and how you can support it.
Download Full Campaign Details
For more information, contact Stephen.t.honey@gmail.com
FCC UCC is proud to support this initiative by helping organize a community forum around Earth Day to gather input and envision the future of the 100-acre Tank Farm site. Learn more about the aging infrastructure and the campaign’s alignment with the City’s Comprehensive Plan 2040. Toss the Tanks February Update Toss the Tanks March Update
Advocacy in Action: EPC’s 2025 Common Agenda
For the 132nd Legislature’s First Session in Winter/Spring 2025, the EPC has identified nine priority bills aimed at protecting Maine’s natural resources and communities. FCC UCC invites you to learn more and take action:
Recognize Wabanaki Self-Determination Fact SheetModernize Maine’s Growth Management Law Fact SheetFund Land for Maine’s Future Fact SheetAchieve 100% Clean Electricity for Maine by 2040 Fact Sheet
Prevent Future Toxic Spills of PFAS (“forever chemicals”) Fact SheetProtect Waterways in Maine by Tackling Stormwater Pollution Fact Sheet
Cut Pollution by Increasing Clean Transportation Options Fact SheetProtect Mainers and Lower Skyrocketing Utility Costs Fact Sheet
Together, we can protect Maine’s environment and advocate for a sustainable, just future for all.
For more information, visit the Maine Council of Churches or the Environmental Priorities Coalition websites.
“The Earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.” — Psalm 24:1