collage of half a healthy tree with bright green leaves and grass on the left, a dead and barren half of a tree with no leaves and no grass on the right

Environmental Justice

outline illutration of the earth with a small tow leafed plant growing out of the north pole
large quote marks both left and right

God said: ‘Everything that I created, I created it for you. Be careful not to destroy My world – for if you do, there will be nobody after you to repair it.’

Midrash Kohelet Raba 7:28

Our Mission

As Jews we have an obligation to care for the earth. The Environmental Justice Task force advocates for actions and legislation addressing the issues causing and resulting from climate change. 

Our Work

The Environmental Justice Task Force works with Temple leadership and partner organizations to both educate our community and provide information for change, focusing on local New York City issues including encouraging New Yorkers to use public transportation and to compost.

We have joined the Hazon Seal of Sustainability Program, a 12-month program designed to support organizations and communities working to create a healthier, more equitable, and more sustainable world for all by linking Jewish values to substantive action toward sustainability and climate-centered goals.

Recently, the RAC-NY launched the Climate Covenant: A RAC-NY Campaign to Combat Climate Change.

Partners
Hazon, Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism (RAC)

Get Involved

For more information on how to get involved, contact Lon Kaufman.

TAKE THE PLEDGE

At Temple Shaaray Tefila, we are a community driven by meaning, connection and purpose, and as part of such commitment, we believe we have an obligation to care for the earth. Small steps are important, and collectively small steps can make a big difference. Joining Shaaray Tefila’s Environmental Pledge is a meaningful first step. The Environmental Pledge is for you, individually or as a family, to take one (or more) actions that would benefit the environment.  LEARN MORE AND TAKE THE PLEDGE.

Environmental Pledge Information Bulletin

Each month, the task force will recommend actions you and your family can take to help the environment and fight climate change.

December 2022: Issue #1 – Eco-Friendly Laundry Tips
February 2023: Issue #2 – Plant a Tree
March 2023: Issue #3 – Clothing