A warm refuge from the most frigid winters, and cooling relief from stifling summer days: the notions of comfort and sustainability in a place of prayer and gathering, fueled by heat extracted from far beneath the earth’s surface, may be a trite observation, but it’s bold and literally grounded in both nature and technology.

Montreal’s Reform Temple Emanu-El-Beth Sholom is set to become a pioneer with a project to shed its outdated and failing gas-powered heating and cooling system in favour of a geothermal climate control system and becoming one of the greenest buildings on the island of Montreal.

Geothermal is the most cost-effective solution to replace the temple’s aging gas-powered HVAC system. The new system will draw heat from the ground—a stable and renewable source that is not subject to market inflation—offering long-term predictability and minimal maintenance. Heated water circulates through long tubes and is passed through pumps extracting heat in summer to cool and maintaining and circulating heat in winter to warm.

Crews began drilling a test well on June 7 to probe how deep the tubes that will pull the water will go. “It can go up to half a kilometre,” temple member and volunteer project manager Len Smofsky told The CJN.

Expected to be completed within 18 months, the transition to a clean energy source is expected to save the congregation more than $40,000 annually, but it does come with a hefty price tag. While these are current estimates, says Chad Lubelsky, executive director at the temple, which will be further refined over time as they advance in the work, the total cost is around $1.5 million for the new geothermal HVAC system, “which includes changing the entire guts of the distribution system to bypass what was there before.”

The temple received a 5-year, US$100,000 interest-free loan from the Adamah Climate Action Fund which was matched by a member of the congregation. The project will also pick up additional subsidies from Quebec’s environment ministry as well as Hydro-Québec.

“Care for the planet is a Jewish value,” said Senior Rabbi Lisa Grushcow. “As a synagogue, we are committed to reducing our footprint and increasing our impact when it comes to the environment. Another strong Jewish value is our commitment to future generations. By taking these steps, we are ensuring that our building and community will continue to thrive and be a welcoming spiritual home for many years to come.”

Temple Emanu-El-Beth Sholom contracted local firm Marmott Énergies to transition the 50,000-square-foot building by employing standing column well technology, which plunges deeper and is more efficient than traditional closed-loop systems. “It’s also the only way we could use geothermal for the entire building” said Smofsky, “because like many urban buildings we don’t have a lot of land relative to the size of our building, so traditional geothermal would be problematic.” The kind of well they are digging goes down fairly deep, and how far they go will be dependent on the nature of the water flow underground.

In essence, wells pull water from deep below the surface, while closed loop systems bring it up from shallower depths and require more tubes in closer proximity, thereby requiring a larger footprint. The deeper system is not quite as widely used in the region, says Smofsky, “a little bit more in the States. But even in our cold environment, it works quite well if you go down far enough and there’s good, consistent heat underground.” That lends extra excitement in the quest to prove that projects like this can be done in Montreal’s urban core. “I think Hydro is very interested in that, because they want to reduce their peak consumption in the winter when their grid is pressed.”

Generally, most religious institutional buildings are older, and inefficient from a heating and insulation perspective. Dealing with larger buildings with high ceilings and large open spaces presents challenges, as they were not designed when energy efficiency was a main consideration. (St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City, whose construction began in the late 1850s, used the same technology to transition in 2018, for a building that’s even larger, and more challenging to dig.)

Temple Emanu-El-Beth Sholom was rebuilt in 1960, following a fire to its original structure that was built in 1918. The late ‘50s rebuild left a patchwork of old water-based radiators and other systems, all which has rusted, says Smofsky. “It’s problematic as the gas burners are being degraded quickly by rust in the pipes, which can’t be efficiently removed or accessed. So we needed to do a new system.”

The change is projected to reduce the temple’s CO₂ footprint by 100 tons annually, equivalent to that produced by driving 22 gas-powered cars for a year. “Any time a building of that size converts from something like gas or oil, there’s also a big savings there in terms of pollution in the city,” says Smofsky. “I look at our weather maps to see what problem we have with pollutants, especially in the winter pollution in the city.”

As reported by The CJN in 2023, the temple joined ten other sites across Canada in a post-Covid sustainability challenge under Adamah (formerly Hazon), that included a transition to non-disposable dishes, silverware, cups and mugs for all activities, and planting a pollinator garden. The last large infrastructure project it embarked on was to update its accessibility.

Mark Gibson, co-founder of the Zero Emissions Churches Project, has worked with the temple since the fall of 2023 to get their project going, beginning with a presentation “essentially about what we in North America could do, in practical terms, to respond to the climate crisis that western culture had created,” he told The CJN. “One clear thing we could do as faith groups is to change our heating and cooling systems to be electricity-based rather than fossil fuels, as soon as it was financially feasible or when the system was at its end of life.”

Founded in 1882 and situated in the city of Westmount, adjacent to downtown Montreal, the congregation counts some 650 member families. “There are many reasons for temple to do this,” said Lubelsky, “ecological, financial, and we couldn’t be more excited. But when we say temple is doing this, it means the temple community is doing it. This would not happen without the work of volunteers.” Fortune favours the well prepared he says, “and we’re extremely fortunate that we have a very long history of being a place where people come and contribute, and turn it into the institution that it is, of having a very engaged and engaging community.”

Gibson’s organization also has a corps of volunteers providing free assistance to faith groups to make the transition most effectively in their own region. He says he’s proud of the work that he saw the Montreal temple’s committee do, particularly “in exploring new territory; we were able to provide reassurance based on having watched a number of communities explore these same questions and having analyzed a number of successful and less-successful projects. Because they allowed me to walk with them, I gained valuable insights which I could share with the rest of our network.”

The organization is partnered with several communities around Montreal including four Anglican churches and others that are still in assessment. They have also worked with a French Catholic diocese and individual churches and have work going on in seven other Anglican dioceses, a Lutheran synod and a variety of independent churches.

“People of faith have been reflecting together on the climate crisis over the past years,” says Gibson, “and this puts them slightly ahead of most of the Canadian population in deciding to take action.” The change is slower than many would like, he agrees, “but it is starting to pick up speed… our well-being depends on our being able to learn how to restore balance to the ecosystems we depend on.”

Since its launch in 2023, the Adamah Climate Action Fund has awarded US$1.3 million to 50 projects across North America, comprised of $996,593 in interest-free loans and $309,016 in matching grants, allowing Jewish organizations to immediately cut energy costs, freeing up resources to invest in their core missions, said Adamah CEO Jakir Manela in a statement. “Our community has the tools—and now the funds—to lead on climate action… Adamah’s Coalition represents an unprecedented mobilization of the Jewish world toward meaningful climate action—at pace and at scale. With expert support and financing available, there’s no reason Jewish leaders can’t be at the forefront of creating a livable future for our children.”

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Adamah’s Climate Action Fund empowers Jewish organizations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower operating costs, and serve as environmental leaders in their communities through a combination of interest-free loans and matching grants.

Since its launch in 2023, the Adamah Climate Action Fund has awarded:

• $1.3 million to 50 projects across North America
• $996,593 in interest-free loans
• $309,016 in matching grants

These projects will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2,630 metric tons annually and save approximately $801,060 each year in energy and operating costs.

New Awardees Lead by Example 

This round’s North American Climate Action Loan recipients include: 

Project: Replace its oil-fired boiler with energy-efficient electric mini-split heat pumps.
Outcome: Expected to save $3,200 annually—or $64,000 over the life of the equipment.

Project: Installing a 306kW solar energy system.
Outcome: Projected to save $39,000 annually on electricity costs.

“These zero-interest loans allow Jewish organizations to immediately cut energy costs, freeing up resources to invest in their core missions,” said Jakir Manela, CEO of Adamah. “Our community has the tools—and now the funds—to lead on climate action.” 

Scott Braswell of Merage JCC in Irvine, CA, a past Fund recipient, echoed this sentiment: 

“The funds from Adamah have allowed us to dream bigger. We initially planned a gradual LED upgrade, but quickly realized the energy and cost savings were too great to delay. The new LEDs not only look professional but also provide significant savings.” 

Supporting Change in New York 

Four Jewish institutions in New York received Adamah NY Climate Action Fund Grants, supported by UJA, for upgrades to lighting and thermostats:

Project: Replacing all classroom, hallway, and exterior lights with energy efficient LEDs. 

Project: Purchase and installation of 25 Sensi Wi-Fi and app-enabled thermostats.

Project: Replace existing fixtures with high efficiency LED lights equipped with motion sensors and timers.

Project: Installing solar powered lighting for a girls High School in Queens.

These efforts complement other recent upgrades such as rooftop solar panels and heat pump installations. Rabbi Linson of Temple Judea of Laguna Hills, CA, another past recipient, remarked: 

“Our community sees that environmental stewardship is also financial stewardship. We are proud of our sustainability efforts and grateful for the support.” 

Funding Opportunities and New Deadline 

The Adamah Climate Action Fund currently offers financial support through three regional programs: 

• Adamah NY Climate Action Fund (for schools and synagogues located in NYC’s five boroughs, Westchester, and Long Island): Matching grants up to $10,000 per project 

• Orange County Climate Action Grant Fund (Orange County, CA): Matching grants up to $10,000 

• North American Climate Action Loan Fund: Interest-free loans up to $100,000 

Adamah plans to launch additional regional grant programs in the coming months to expand its reach. 

The next deadline to apply for funding is November 6, 2025. All applicants must be members of Adamah’s Jewish Climate Leadership Coalition, a growing network of Jewish organizations committed to climate action. Current members include major umbrella organizations of Jewish life including Jewish Federations of North America, Jewish Funders Network, Hillel International, Prizmah, and JCC Association of North America, as well as leaders of major Jewish denominations (including the Central Conference of American Rabbis, Rabbinical Assembly, Rabbinical Council of America, Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association and Reconstructing Judaism, Union for Reform Judaism, and United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism). Membership is free and open to any Jewish organization, and those not yet involved are encouraged to email coalition@adamah.org or visit adamah.org/coalition to learn more. 

“This coalition represents an unprecedented mobilization of the Jewish world toward meaningful climate action—at pace and at scale. With expert support and financing available, there’s no reason Jewish leaders can’t be at the forefront of creating a livable future for our children.”

— Jakir Manela, CEO

Jewish community organizations who recognize the urgency of climate change are committed to taking action.

Wherever you are on your climate action journey – we provide community, gentle accountability, and resources to support meaningful climate action.

Learn More

The post Announcing the 2025 Climate Action Fund Recipients appeared first on Adamah.

ROCKLAND — The local synagogue is joining in the effort to combat climate change.

The Adas Yoshuron Synagogue in Rockland removed its oil-fired boiler and oil tank last week. The heating system is being replaced by mini-split electric heat pumps, which also provide air-conditioning in the summer.

The project is being financed by an Adamah Climate Action Fund loan. This 0%-interest loan allows the synagogue to decrease its greenhouse gas emissions. The electric heat pumps are projected to reduce the gas emissions by 13.1 tons per year and save about $1,000 per year. This loan is made possible by Adamah and its Jewish Climate Leadership Coalition.

The cost of the heat pumps was $54,000 but the synagogue expects to receive a rebate from Efficiency Maine that will reduce the cost by several thousand dollars. The pumps are projected to pay for themselves in 10 years.

The synagogue was established in 1912.

“Adas Yoshuron is proud to be part of a coalition that represents Jewish organizations engaging millions of people of all ages and backgrounds, across the world. Together, we recognize the urgency of the climate crisis and our obligation to do more,” stated David Statman, president of the congregation in a news release.

The post Rockland Synagogue Takes Action to Deal with Climate Change appeared first on Adamah.

Ever since I was evacuated on a raft from my home in the pouring rain during Hurricane Harvey, I have cared about climate action. When I was 15, I learned that climate change intensified the Category Four hurricane that decimated Houston, Texas in 2017. That same year, I joined the Jewish Youth Climate Movement as a climate activist.

Now, amid my regular high school activities, I devote several hours a week to writing about climate change, and planning and attending actions demanding a better future for me, future generations and the world. 

Throughout my activism, I have watched, with increasing anxiety, the climate clock tick and the world experience more and more climate change-fueled disasters. More recently, I have seen extreme hypocrisy from the federal government and major companies that backtrack on promises to lower emissions and fight the climate crisis. These decisions all but confirm that the choking wildfire smoke I face in my new home in Denver will get worse and that my activism has not been enough to single-handedly stop the crisis. 

This climate neglect by the current administration starkly contrasts with the start of my activism during the Biden administration. During his term, climate change was acknowledged (a low threshold), and combating it was even one of the administration’s goals, eventually leading to the signing of the Inflation Reduction Act, an imperfect but historically large climate spending bill.

The hope that this bill instilled in youth activists is now being undone by historic levels of climate denial, gutting clean energy initiatives and research and new federal investment in fossil fuel projects. This has left my peers and me dismayed and demoralized at a time when we most need the energy to protect our communities and our generation. 

Thankfully, for me and the other members of the Jewish Youth Climate Movement, having a Jewish focus to our activism can help prevent burnout and provide hope in a dark time for climate action. It’s easy for us to see climate work as inherently Jewish because our organizing seeks to repair the world and take care of the most vulnerable in our society, principles also instilled in Torah. Knowing that your faith supports and compels you to fight for a better future is motivating, and no lack of federal or corporate action can take that away. 

“Taking Jewish climate action enables young people to not only fight for their local geographic communities but for the continuity of a collectivist, environmental tradition at odds with the exploitation and consumption causing climate change,” said Madeline Canfield, one of the staff advisors with JYCM who herself was a youth organizer. “This crisis requires youth activists to see their Jewish identities as two-fold: something which links them to a community to strategically mobilize and gives them texts, rituals, ideals and histories from which to draw clarity and resilience amid existential uncertainty.”

JYCM, a program of Adamah, the Jewish environmental group, does this on an explicit level, building relationships between high school members of the National Leadership Board and drawing joy from community and Jewish ritual. Meetings include time to catch up on daily life, de-stress, discuss hopeful developments in the climate world, and focus on the things that we should be grateful for in the midst of our fight for a better future. There are divrei Torah (sermons) at retreats and online meetings, connecting our work to our Jewish roots and inspiring hope, which is central to all movement planning. Our activism is loving, friendship-based, fun, and incredibly Jewishly enriching.

We are bringing that same attitude to JYCM’s newest campaign, Underwrite Earth. In partnership with other climate organizations, the initiative targets insurance companies and calls on them to stop insuring new and existing fossil fuel projects. Fossil fuel projects cannot move forward without insurance, and recently, insurance companies have shown greater willingness to respond to public pressure than the current federal government, since they rely on the public’s trust when buying their plans. 

Underwrite Earth also specifically engages Jews who lead insurance companies. Part of the campaign strategy involves sending postcards to these Jewish executives pressuring them to stop insuring LNGs and to consider their faith and the climate in company decisions. Last month, in solidarity with the campaign, 110 rabbis, cantors, and clerical students sent a letter to the CEO of the insurer Chubb, making a similar Jewish appeal. 

This innovative use of shared faith as a strategic tool is a reflection of the Jewish spirit of JYCM. Jews have faced setbacks in their search for safety and freedom of religion, but they adapted and kept on practicing their religion. Similarly, the climate movement has faced setbacks and has changed its strategy to adapt to the times and meet the moment. Developing these new strategies to combat the climate crisis and drawing on our history as resilient people creates hope and sparks more motivation to continue the climate fight.

Teens Hope Adelson and Liora Pelavin, who serve with me on JYCM’s Leadership Board, also draw hope from Underwrite Earth. Due to pressure from many environmental organizations, “Chubb just recently ruled out insuring the East African crude oil pipeline, which is one of the biggest oil projects in the world,” said Adelson, 17, from Orlando, Florida, “We are seeing movement, and that’s inspiring, because it shows us that the world isn’t closing in on us.”

Insurance companies “have a big financial incentive to stop insuring fossil fuel projects, because their home insurance [rates] have to go up because there are more disasters,” said Pelavin, 17, from Teaneck, New Jersey, “If they want to actually make money from insurance, they have to fight the climate crisis.”

While pressure on insurance companies may provide a boost for climate activists, decreased governmental and corporate attention to climate change is causing burnout. Finding ways to keep up motivation in the climate fight is critical to youth activists outlasting this period of lackluster focus on climate change.

Adelson admits that living in a state whose government is highly averse to talking about or acting on climate change saps her motivation and energy for climate organizing. “It’s mind-boggling to me that my state has been hit with hurricane after hurricane, natural disaster after natural disaster, tornadoes, hail, and snow, which doesn’t happen in Florida, and yet our governor is doing nothing about it.” 

When frustrated with the lack of climate action in her state and on a federal level, Adelson leans on her Jewish faith. Her bat mitzvah portion discusses pe’ah, the commandment to leave a corner of your field unharvested so those who do not have food can take from it. Adelson reminds herself of this commandment when she feels herself losing hope or motivation. She remains grateful for all that she has and considers the ways that she can use what she has to help those who might not have the same resources. 

Pelavin said that “being in community is a way that I spiritually heal myself so that I can keep going in this fight… I burn out, and then I bring myself back up” by drawing strength from her community.

This cycle, she said, is fueled by “the Jewish community that I have, and the wisdom that I know.”

Climate activist Bekah Garlikov, 16, who served as a youth climate ambassador for San Mateo County, acknowledges that “activism as a whole, it’s hard. It’s really hard. The things you learn while becoming an activist are somewhat depressing and anxiety-inducing.” However, Bekah’s Jewish identity helps motivate him and avoid burnout. “Being a Jew, understanding that you have to rally behind your community, it’s a similar feeling of rallying behind climate action and making progress. The world and nature are our community, and we fight to protect them.”

My motivation comes from my community of Jewish climate activists. With them, I have attended protests, phone-banked, planned actions, established local JYCM chapters, and educated thousands of Jews intergenerationally about the climate crisis and its connection to Judaism. Throughout our work, we never lose sight of our Jewish roots, recognizing that we are supported by hundreds of generations of Jews who have cared for the earth before us. These Jewishly-rooted communal components of climate organizing help me avoid burnout and continue fighting for climate justice.

Reducing any amount of greenhouse gas emissions is a huge win and will prevent natural disasters from intensifying. If action had been taken earlier, then perhaps the climate-change-fueled hurricane that destroyed my home would not have been as extreme either. The stakes in this fight are not low; they affect everyone on Earth. 

With the continued intensification of the climate crisis, Jewish teen climate activists are not slowing down. We are coming up with new strategies to reduce fossil fuel consumption despite a lack of federal government interest and are drawing on our Jewish identities, communities, experiences and families to find the motivation to continue our work and avoid burnout. There is no excuse to stop fighting for climate action. Our fight is holy work that benefits all of humanity.

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I just got back from the TED Countdown Summit last week in Nairobi, Kenya, where I was one of seven faith leaders from across the globe invited to join this visionary group of global innovators, business executives, scientists, policymakers, next-generation leaders, artists, and activists — all united in our commitment to building a brighter future. 
 
Why Nairobi?  According to the TED organizers: “There is no path to achieving the Paris goals that does not run through Africa. Kenya boasts one of the greenest grids in the world, with 90% of its electricity from renewables and 50% of this from geothermal. With 70% of its population under 30, Kenya is also home to a new generation of leaders committed to leapfrogging old patterns and pioneering a resilient path to economic development.” 

Over the course of three days, over 500 participants (half local, half global) heard over 40 climate-focused TED Talks from incredible leaders doing amazing things. There was also a variety of interactive workshops and discussions, including a dynamic session exploring faith-based initiatives, during which I spoke and facilitated deep and meaningful conversation alongside wonderful partners and participants. It was amazing to learn from so many world-class leaders and innovators driving systemic change across a variety of sectors, and a wonderful opportunity to deepen relationships with faith leaders, and cultivate new partnerships as well. 

My TED Countdown experiences over the years have been remarkable for a variety of reasons, including the profound global diversity in the room, and relatively very few Jews, at least compared to most other rooms I find myself in these days. That said, I connected with several local Jewish green business leaders, and one of my biggest highlights was getting to know Tzeporah Berman, the powerhouse Canadian climate activist leading the global Fossil Fuel Nonproliferation Treaty. Melanie Katzman led our outing to KENVO—Kijabe Environment Volunteers—a local Nairobi-outskirts community reforestation project working in partnership with the World Resource Institute to create a youth-led initiative in biodiversity protection and climate resilience. And Lindsay Levin serves as co-host, emcee, and one of the lead organizers of each TED Countdown Summit. So rest assured, amidst this fascinating and uplifting global climate leadership gathering, there were also moments of Jewish Pride and Jewish Peoplehood. 

As the TED Talks are released over the next 3-6 months, look out for more reflections from this gathering. There is so much to unpack and integrate into our work, and so many wonderful leaders and partners from which and with whom we can learn and grow together. 

Our world is in the midst of a hard reset. Institutions are faltering, and achievements, like the Paris Agreement, appear increasingly precarious. Critical challenges that mark everyday life remain unresolved, deepening fears about our shared future. Yet amid these headwinds, there are clear signs of progress toward a better world. Booming clean energy industries in China, the end of coal in the U.K., and a new generation of leaders in Kenya committed to leapfrogging old patterns of development, all point the way forward. Positive tipping points – many already in motion – can take us further, faster.

— The TED’s Countdown Summit leadership

Here’s to the global coalitions that continue to build a better future amidst these dark times. Now is the time for serious action, and we each can do our part.  If your Jewish organization is planning a sustainability project, Adamah’s Jewish Climate Leadership Coalition is here to help with planning and with financing. Connect with us today and learn how to get started.

L’chayim,
Jakir

The post The TED Countdown Summit in Nairobi, Kenya  appeared first on Adamah.

Oh, Okefenokee 

Adamah, the largest Jewish environmental organization in North America, is celebrating a small victory after the announcement that Twin Pines Minerals, the company trying to mine near the Okefenokee Swamp, has agreed to sell its land in South Georgia to The Conservation Fund for $60 million.

Adamah ATL Advisory Board Member Josh Marks has been instrumental in mobilizing Jewish Georgians to protect the swampland. As the president of Georgians for the Okefenokee, Marks collaborated with local students, rabbis, and families to campaign for this water protection win.

Marks said the fight is not over.

“There are still more than 20,000 acres of land along the swamp’s edge that are vulnerable to mining and which need to be protected. The best way to accomplish that is for the legislature to finally pass the Okefenokee Protection Act, which would prohibit the issuance of mining permits along the entirety of the swamp’s eastern boundary. Citizens should contact their state legislators and urge them to support the OPA during the next session,” he said.

Adamah’s Clara Camber added: “Jewish texts tell us how important it is to protect the natural world and prevent needless destruction and waste (bal tashchit).”

The post Save Our Swamp appeared first on Adamah.

The Jewish Green Business Network connects North American and Israeli green business professionals in order to accelerate climate solutions across the Jewish world and beyond.

Many of us are living with intense anxiety amid the recent Iran attacks against Israel, political violence, antisemitic acts, and the climate crisis. 

Adamah’s core value of Jewish Peoplehood, building bridges for the Jewish people—from Israel and the Diaspora—to build a more sustainable future together, is more important now than ever. We stand with all those who yearn for peace and pray for the safety of innocent victims of violence.

In this moment, we need to mobilize the full power of the Jewish people in the face of existential crises. We need all hands-on deck to find our way through this moment, for our people and our planet—and that must include the tremendous brilliance, innovation, resourcefulness, and strength of the Jewish green business demographic.  

That’s why we are excited to launch the Jewish Green Business Network, a new Adamah program with massive impact potential moving forward. We are deeply grateful to our friends at the Jewish Climate Trust for believing in Adamah and in the power of this vision.

What will the Jewish Green Business Network do? 

• Local gatherings, business tours, climate week events, career panels, and networking events 
• A supportive multi-generational community of Jewish professional leaders driving innovation, and showing up to share, learn, mentor, and collaborate with one another
• Unique opportunities for business development, partnerships, and strategic connections between the North American and Israeli green business worlds

Click here to join the network! 

And here’s to the great strength of the Jewish people, and the power of community to see us through difficult times.

B’Shalom, 
Or Katzman & Talya Herring   
Co-Directors, Adamah Jewish Green Business Network 

Or Katzman is an impact strategist, entrepreneur, and community builder focused on climate, business, and social change. He co-directs the Jewish Green Business Network at Adamah and has led initiatives such as SDGIsrael, the Ecological Benefits Framework, and the Transformative Impact Summit. With expertise in climate science, water management, circular economics, and impact strategy, Or helps translate bold ideas into practical solutions for a more just and resilient world. 

Talya Herring Esq. is a strategic communicator, environmental advocate, and community organizer with a legal background and deep experience across climate tech, sustainability, and Jewish communal life. Talya brings her passion for the planet and people as Co-Director of the Jewish Green Business Network at Adamah. She has a strong background in environmental action, including managing marketing and research at PLANETech, practicing environmental law at Lipa Meir & Co., and founding a zero-waste business and podcast, Zevel Rebel.  

The post Launching the Jewish Green Business Network appeared first on Adamah.

Greenbelters Jeannie Bellina and Melissa Ann Ehrenreich traveled on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 11 to Pearlstone Retreat Center in Reisterstown to learn from former Greenbelter Joe Murray how to make an earthen, smokeless pizza oven using natural materials. 

Inspired by stories of how
Toronto public parks have created almost 20 pizza ovens for community use surrounded by gardens of tomatoes and basil, the duo registered for a Pearlstone Adamah service project to learn Cob Construction 101. 

Murray shared materials, design specifications and wisdom on how to assess clay composition in dirt gathered locally, how to achieve the best mixture to create a thermal layer that could support temperatures of up to 750 degrees Fahrenheit to meet kosher standards, and tips for success (a covered oven is key to preventing the oven from eroding when it rains).

The small team of five volunteers onsite created the final 6-inch layer on top of a sturdy sand dome, fire brick and cob brick base that was previously constructed. After this final thermal layer fully dries for two weeks, Murray will cut an oven opening out of the clay structure, remove the sand inner core and then light a fire to cure the inside of the oven. 

Participants were delighted with the hands-on approach and accessibility of construction, to say nothing of the low costs made possible by sourcing materials straight from the earth. They immediately began to think of ways to engage and bring this concept back to Greenbelt.  Could our community build a community oven here to host pizza parties for all? Maybe so.

The post Two Greenbelt Women Learn Art Of Building an Earthen Oven appeared first on Adamah.

I’m leaving behind despair… I’m taking with me the kaleidoscopic gorgeous array of life, the energetic, dynamic and filled with “chutzpah” people we’ve met. – Ana Levy-Lyons, tour participant

WHAT A WEEK.
Just one week ago, we embarked on Adamah-NY’s first Roots and Resilience environmental journey to Israel.

Landing in Israel on a Friday afternoon was a powerful moment. From the air, I took in the valleys, quarries, cities, and green hills of my homeland—almost like the pilot had arranged a personal aerial tour. It turned out the slower descent wasn’t just for my benefit—it was due to a missile launched from Yemen. It was the first of five we experienced that week. While those moments were certainly felt, they didn’t break our spirit. They did, however, create a big BALAGAN (our first new Hebrew word, which means chaotic situation) in the flight plans of our incredible group participants.

Embracing complexity—and exploring “roots and resilience,” as the journey’s name suggests— was our motto from day one. With the support of UJA Federation of NY’s DAJ (Diversity, Action, and Justice) Committee, we explored our deep-rooted connection to the land, the adamah, the planet, and to Israel—our historical, ancestral, and living homeland.

As environmentalists, climate activists, and nature lovers, we reflected on “roots” in many shades of green. But this journey wasn’t only about exploring our personal roots and resilience (though delayed flights, late-night sirens, and shelter runs at 2am was certainly part of it!). It was also about engaging in climate action, regional environmentalism, and how those intersect with Israel’s complex geopolitical and security realities.

We considered how physical security resilience and climate resilience are deeply intertwined—especially in times of war.

Why would a group of Jewish environmentalists come together to explore all this? What could possibly be Jewish about climate action? And how is talking about mitigation and adaptation in Israel relevant to our work in New York?

Our tour set out to explore exactly these questions—and more. We aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of Israel’s environmental landscape and how it intersects with the country’s internal and external socio-political challenges. We also wanted to highlight Israel’s cutting-edge environmental innovations and draw connections to the challenges we face in New York—especially around rapid development, population growth, and climate adaptation.

Equally important was the goal of connecting peoplehood and planethood—creating a supportive, values-driven network for Jewish professionals working in climate fields. Many of them have experienced isolation in their workplaces, often facing anti-Israel or antisemitic rhetoric. This journey was a space for solidarity, learning, and meaningful connection.

We did SO MUCH! A few highlights are shared below, and you can view the full itinerary here.

One of the most inspiring stops was our visit to the Shapira neighborhood in South Tel Aviv. There, residents have built a thriving community compost program, a productive vegetable garden, and—amazingly—their own sustainable currency: Lira Shapira. The currency is based on composted food scraps: for every kilo of food waste, you receive 1 Lira Shapira (equal to 1 shekel), which can be used to purchase fresh produce and goods within the local community. A beautiful model of circular economy in action!

In East Jerusalem, we toured with Palestinian urban planner Tareq Nasser, who works with Palestinian women involved in the Sinsila project. Together, they’re practicing placemaking—transforming neglected or underutilized spaces into vibrant, life-giving places. Through rooftop gardens, beekeeping, and community engagement, they are fostering both environmental renewal and social mobility in an area that deeply needs both.

We spent a day at the Lower Jordan River and the Dead Sea learning about its alarming ecological decline and the local coalition working tirelessly to save it; We also visited sustainable desert communities in both recognized and unrecognized Bedouin villages, where residents are blending traditional practices with cutting-edge climate technologies—like solar energy, biogas, atmospheric water generation, composting, and off-grid sewage treatment. These innovations are helping them grow crops, raise herds, and advance education in incredibly challenging, off-the-grid conditions.

Throughout the journey, we met incredible entrepreneurs who aren’t just building climate solutions—they’re also pushing for policy change and working to educate the public and decision-makers alike. One highlight was our visit to Jerusalem’s central produce market, where we learned about Metzilot HaMazon (The Food Rescuers). They treated us to a delicious lunch made entirely from rescued food—items that would have otherwise gone to waste. Beyond the amazing flavors, we were inspired by their mission: promoting food security, community engagement, and food system education, all powered by a dedicated team of volunteers.

Following a gut-wrenching and deeply humbling visit to the Nova Festival site, we met with Rabbi Avi Dabush, CEO of Rabbis for Human Rights—a resident of the area and a survivor of the October 7th massacre. Our conversation with Avi, held while overlooking Gaza and reflecting on the immense suffering of the Palestinian population just miles away, helped ground this moment in both political, emotional, and spiritual context. His unwavering commitment to hope, justice, and the pursuit of peace—even in the face of unimaginable darkness—was profoundly moving and inspiring.

Amidst all the powerful learning and reflection, we also had a LOT of fun! Our days were full of joy, laughter, and unforgettable moments. We explored vibrant shuks (outdoor markets), indulged in extraordinary vegan food, went stargazing, walked to the Kotel (Western Wall), and visited the beautiful Gazelle Valley Nature Reserve—a space preserved and protected thanks to a passionate community-led effort.

We spent our final days in Tel Aviv, soaking in its beauty, warmth, and vibrant energy—while continuing to learn. Our focus turned to climate innovation and sustainability at the local government level. We explored how the municipality is working to create a more walkable city, expanding micro-mobility options, and integrating mass transit projects.

We also learned how Tel Aviv is planning for the future—how growth projections for the Gush Dan metropolis are being aligned with climate vulnerability data (including extreme heat, sea level rise, and coastal erosion), prompting ongoing rethinking of sustainable urban development.

These days sparked rich conversations within our group—reflections on the parallels with New York’s own challenges, and exciting ideas about cross-fertilization and future collaboration.

Through powerful conversations with inspiring speakers and exposure to meaningful, innovative work at the municipal, regional, and national levels, we filled our buckets—with hope, knowledge, lived experiences, and many, many beautiful new relationships.

One of the core motivations behind this journey was to support American Jewish environmentalists and climate activists—especially at a time when holding both of those identities can feel isolating. During our meeting with one of Israel’s greatest climate activists, former MK Dov Khenin, now Chair of the Israeli President’s Climate Forum, he offered us a powerful reminder:

Don’t give up on Israel [on your conversation with others, especially progressive Jews]… because when you give up on Israel, you’re giving up on us—the people.

This journey reminded us that hope is a renewable resource—and that by staying connected to each other, to our values, to the land and to all its people, we can continue to lead with strength and purpose.

Dr. Shahar Sadeh, Adamah NY Founding Director and Tour Leader

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Since February, I’ve had the honor to study at the Arava Institute for Environmental Studies in Ketura, Israel. Here, I have had the opportunity to study with incredible peers and professors, and have made connections which will last far beyond the conclusion of the semester.

I think it is critical to start this post by explaining a bit about my background. I am a Modern Orthodox Jew who grew up in Baltimore and New York. I was raised in a Zionist home and community which instilled within me a love for the Jewish people and a desire to learn more and contribute to the Jewish state. I was also raised on the values of environmentalism and sustainability. My maternal grandfather was a climate scientist who was one of the first advocates for greenhouse gas emissions research and policy at Exxon before they eliminated his research team. From a young age, my parents taught me the importance of caring for a sustainable world. I always felt passionate about being an environmental leader.

These passions which I developed early in life led me to study both Near Eastern Studies and Environmental Studies at Princeton University for my undergraduate degree. Prior to beginning my degree, I would not have seen such an intersection between these fields. I began to conduct research as an undergraduate on the transformation of a river in Northern Israel. Without going into too much detail, what I discovered in my research was that in order to understand environmental policy and change in Israel, it was critical to learn more about the conflict and the geopolitical and historical context from which it began. This inspired me to study abroad for a summer in Jordan, where I was able to become relatively proficient in Arabic. I cherished the opportunity to speak with Jordanians of Palestinian descent about their lives and family histories and discovered how meaningful the power of storytelling and dialogue can be. 

When I first heard about the Arava Institute, I was shocked that there could be an academic institution which was so catered to my interests. Despite Princeton’s pushbacks in studying in Israel because of security concerns, I pushed them to grant me permission to study at the Institute for a semester. I was ultimately successful, and have been enormously satisfied with the decision to study here this semester.

The institute is constantly challenging what environmental stewardship can look like in a world bound by political borders and unrest. I learned here that while the basic mantra of the Institute is that “nature knows no borders,” the reality of the Middle East is far more complex. Different actors in this region need to understand when the environment transcends political borders, and also when nature is anthropogenically differently altered across varying political borders. Every class that I’ve had here, whether more focused on science or politics, has included that complex conversation which is critical to the work which the Institute does. I have really appreciated the honesty and humility with which the professors who I’ve been lucky to study with conduct themselves, which is hard when attempting to enact ground-breaking work to combat simultaneous political and environmental crises. As someone who is aspiring to be a change-maker in this field, hearing and understanding these nuances from professionals has opened my eyes to the practical work of well-grounded applied research.

Furthermore, it has been such an honor and privilege to have met the diverse student population which the Institute brings together. As one of very few international students this semester, it has been incredible to connect with students and interns who I would have never met otherwise. I have developed meaningful relationships with my roommates and peers while utilizing both my Hebrew and Arabic in the process. It has been critical for me to hear the stories of my peers both in and out of the official dialogue space. In addition to allowing me to deepen relationships, this has allowed me to widen my perspective of the different truths which people who live in and out of this region experience. Throughout the hardships and traumas which we discover here at the Institute, we are building deep channels of support and comfort to face the challenging realities which we face. 

Moreover, as one of very few religious students on the program, it has been so important for me to both share my lifestyle with others and connect with Muslim peers. On a recent trip to an Arab village in the Negev, one of my Muslim friends invited me to pray with him at the local Mosque during the fajr services at the crack of dawn. It has been so spiritually moving for me to be able to connect with others in this realm, simultaneously while being surrounded by the uplifting atmosphere of the still and vast Arava desert.

I must express again how grateful I am to have had this experience so far. It has been such a unique experience for an American university student. In a time in which our world is being plagued by toxic, extremist ideological battles, it has been so critical for me to hear the real-life stories of those experiencing this conflict. I have come to understand how critical social and environmental change are for our ever-changing reality, and how we need to ground such work in the nuances which our world includes. I will forever cherish the time I have spent here. I hope that this semester is only the beginning of engagement in this incredibly critical, meaningful, and complex work.

May we see more peaceful and sustainable times.

About the Author
Davi Frank is a junior at Princeton University studying Near Eastern Studies with minors in Environmental Studies and Religion. He founded and co-led the Adamah on Campus Chapter at Princeton for two years. In that role, he helped create meaningful events on campus, including a Jewish Learning Fellowship centered around Jewish ethics during a time of climate change, reverse tashlich events to cleanup nearby streams, and an environmentally themed Shabbat including a panel of activists, clergy, and professors in the field of environmental ethics and protection.

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Last Wednesday and Thursday, SAR Academy’s fifth grade embarked on a fantastic overnight trip to Teva. The experience was filled with bonding, learning and plenty of fun.

The adventure began with early morning tefillah at school, followed by breakfast. Afterward, the fifth graders boarded buses headed to the Isabella Freedman Jewish Retreat Center, ready for two days of outdoor exploration and connection.

Once they arrived, students enjoyed a wide range of activities—hiking scenic trails, engaging in nature lessons, walking along a stream, participating in team-building challenges, playing sports and enjoying delicious meals.

In the evening, the grade gathered for dinner and capped off the day with s’mores around a cozy campfire under the stars.

The Teva trip was a wonderful opportunity for SAR’s fifth graders to connect with nature, strengthen friendships and create lasting memories in the great outdoors.

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One of the largest synagogues and religious schools in the Los Angeles area is embracing on-site solar power to cut its carbon emissions and save money on utility bills.

Valley Beth Shalom, which is in the San Fernando Valley, has spent close to $1.24 million on installing solar panels and energy efficiency improvements. The renewable energy installation includes more than 850 Q Cell rooftop panels by Sunistics Corp.

The solar energy output should generate close to 615,000 kWh per year and save close to $180,000 in annual utility costs. The new system should offset more than 75% of the synagogue and school’s energy use, paying for itself within five years.

“This solar project is a testament to VBS’s proactive leadership and dedication to sustainability,” said Matthew Weintraub, Executive Director of Valley Beth Shalom, in a statement. “By harnessing solar energy, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also securing long-term financial benefits that allow us to invest more in our community, education, and religious programs. Thanks to the support of our Board of Directors, individual donors, Jewish Solar Challenge, and Adamah’s Jewish Leadership Climate Coalition, we are proud to be at the forefront of sustainable transformation in the Jewish community.”

The project was supported by a combination of funding sources, including a $50,000 grant from the Jewish Solar Challenge, generous individual donations, an interest-free loan from Adamah’s Climate Action Fund, significant incentives and rebates provided by the Inflation Reduction Act for nonprofit organizations, and financing by Beneficial State Bank.

Valley Beth Shalom was founded in the 1950s and is in Encino. It includes more than 1,500 member families and, in 2009, was named by Newsweek as one of “America’s 25 Most Vibrant Congregations.”

Rabbis from the synagogue launched the non-profit Jewish World Watch, committed helping survivors of genocide and mass atrocities worldwide.

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