Most Church of England cathedrals still use fossil fuel banks, study finds

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Christian Climate Action (CCA) listed eight cathedrals as having pledged to switch, with Derby the only one currently using a bank that does not invest in fossil fuels.

A further 20 cathedrals said they were considering switching but had not yet pledged, while 15 had either not replied or confirmed they had no plans to move.

Britain’s top five high street banks — Barclays, HSBC, NatWest, Santander and Lloyds — poured $71.12 billion (£53.05bn) into fossil fuels in 2025, up from $70.01bn (£52.23bn) in 2024 and $54.35bn (£40.55bn) in 2023.

Dr Michelle Barnes, of CCA, said: “The main UK high street banks are still pouring billions into oil, gas and coal projects, despite making public climate change commitments.

“It is our responsibility as Christians to use our money wisely.

“Church institutions like cathedrals should lead the way by taking their money out of banks which are driving the destruction of God’s creation and moving them to an ethical provider.

“We need to create a tipping point where the big banks ditch oil and gas companies and focus instead on financing renewable energy and powering the green transition we urgently need.”

CCA plans a week of vigils outside cathedrals next month to thank those who have switched or pledged to do so, and encourage others to follow.

The Association of English Cathedrals was approached for comment. 

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