Environmental Protection (2007)

WHEREAS our tradition teaches us to value our precious earth given to us by God and to prevent its wanton destruction;

WHEREAS the United Synagogue has long supported programs to protect and improve the environment and lessen our dependence on fossil fuels;

WHEREAS the scientific community has essentially confirmed the phenomenon of global warming and the contributing role of human activities;

WHEREAS, much can be achieved in safeguarding our earth by conservation measures and the development of alternative forms of energy

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, our affiliated congregations and their members should

Support legislation and community action to promote a clean environment by reasonably minimizing the emission of toxic substances into the air; and by conserving the use of energy while making every effort to harness our own energy potential. This would have the additional benefit of reducing our dependence on foreign energy sources;

Adopt measures to conserve their own use of energy by utilizing clean energy sources, reducing waste and use of toxic substances, and, more specifically, by considering:

• Using of zone thermostats
  
  
• Planting trees and types of shrubbery requiring less water and limiting or eliminating chemical fertilizers and pesticides
  
  
• Adopting recycling programs for paper and other products
  
  
• Reducing the use of plastic bags and water bottles, styrofoam and other products which are difficult to degrade biologically
  
  
• Considering environmental and energy implications of sites selected for meetings, conferences, conventions, retreats and other gatherings outside of our facilities
  
  
• Encouraging the use of energy efficient appliances including the use of compact florescent light bulbs (CFLs);

Distribute materials and sponsor educational programs on environmental themes which promote environmental awareness, linked whenever possible to Torah and other Jewish sources;

Establish an Environmental Awareness Committee to coordinate these programs, in cooperation with the Social Action Committee and other environmental groups in the community.