Global Warming

Programs and Projects for Congregations, Schools and other Jewish Institutions

Study Jewish texts. This text study can be copied and used in the following settings:

• Shabbat Torah study.
• Youth group educational programs.
• Tu B'Shvat seder or programs.
• Religious school classes.
• Social action or environment committee meetings.
• Board Meetings before considering a plan to reduce an institution's energy use.

Hold a Tu B'Shvat seder. Click here to find a model Tu B'Shvat seder.

Organize a field trip to a local nature center, protected wildlife area, or threatened ecological site. Include study of texts and your favorite Jewish ecological readings.

Launch a new project at a Tu B'Shvat event, such as an Operation Noah project to protect a local habitat, a tree planting project, or an environmental evaluation of your synagogue or school.

Organize an Eco-Shabbat. Select a particular Shabbat in the Spring to make an "eco-Shabbat" with speakers, text study, meals with local organic produce, walks, and outdoor services.

Become an ENERGY STAR CONGREGATION: The Environmental Protection Agency has created a program to help religious institutions become more energy efficient, reducing operating costs while helping to protect the environment. They can provide all of the information and technical assistance you need to become an energy-friendly place. 1-888-STAR-YES

Conduct an energy conservation evaluation (a great youth group project). Most synagogues, schools, community centers and other buildings use far more energy than necessary, providing numerous opportunities to both reduce carbon emissions and save money. The first step is to conduct a thorough energy evaluation, measuring the amount of energy and money wasted by your building and researching how much you can save by retrofitting the lighting, heating, insulation, etc. Contact the Interfaith Coalition on Energy for resources directed at religious institutions.

A comprehensive energy evaluation process for 7-10th graders can be found in Environmental Action: Energy Conservation (to order: 800.872.1100). And your local power company probably provides assistance to customers trying to reduce their use of electricity and gas.

Also helpful is The Green Shalom Guide: A How-To Manual for Greening Local Synagogues, Schools, and Offices produced by Shomrei Adamah of Greater Washington.

Plant trees on synagogue or school grounds, along city streets, and in other appropriate areas. Use native species. Trees absorb carbon dioxide, provide habitat for animals, and provide shade to keep buildings cool. Contact your local parks department and TreePeople, which offers resources for tree-planting programs, including The Simple Act of Planting a Tree: Healing Your Neighborhood, Your City, and Your World.

Advocate for change. Involve your city in the Cities for Climate Protection Campaign. As of December, 1997, 48 local governments in the U.S. had committed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in their jurisdiction 20 percent below 1990 levels.