Committed to environmental stewardship in Adamah’s newest hub: Atlanta, GA
Temple Emanu-El is a leading example of environmental stewardship in Adamah’s newest community impact hub: Atlanta, Georgia.
Since 2018, Temple Emanu-El has led projects to reduce energy consumption, minimize waste, and build a more sustainable future. Partnering with Georgia Interfaith Power and Light (GIPL), the synagogue conducted an energy audit to identify ways to shrink its carbon footprint. This led to meaningful projects, including replacing 672 fluorescent light fixtures (2,220 tubes) with energy-efficient LEDs, greatly reducing energy use while improving lighting.
After joining Adamah’s Jewish Leadership Climate Coalition (Coalition) in September 2023, they’ve been able to do even more! Further improvements included installing 28 programmable thermostats for better HVAC efficiency. The synagogue also upgraded insulation in key areas. The sanctuary’s insulation doubled from R-10 to R-20, while the religious school’s roof improved from R-17.4 to R-25.6. These upgrades help regulate indoor temperatures, reducing energy demand for heating and cooling. All of this was made possible with support from matching grant funds from GIPL and Adamah’s Climate Action Fund.
Beyond energy efficiency, Temple Emanu-El has reduced waste by eliminating disposable dinnerware. The synagogue invested in 200 sets of reusable plates, flatware, and glassware, along with 60 unbreakable wheat straw plates and cups for children’s events. A new industrial dishwasher enabled this transition, effectively eliminating single-use plastics from synagogue events.
Education and engagement are also central to Temple Emanu-El’s sustainability efforts. The synagogue invited a climate scientist from The Weather Channel to speak with the congregation about the impacts of climate change. Committed to sustainability, the clergy actively participates in environmental efforts, including dedicating at least one annual sermon to climate action. The assistant rabbi, an active member of the synagogue’s Green Team and local Adamah advisory board, shows the clergy’s strong commitment to sustainability.
The Green Team’s efforts extend beyond the building into community initiatives like Garden Isaiah, which transforms unused land into a thriving garden. Producing an average of 1,380 pounds of fresh vegetables annually for a local food bank, the garden strengthens the synagogue’s community ties while promoting sustainable food practices.
Additional sustainability measures include installing six Level II electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and evaluating solar energy proposals. While the building’s rooflines and topology made solar installation unfeasible, Temple Emanu-El remains committed to exploring alternative renewable energy options. The synagogue has also developed a food waste policy, integrated sustainability into its B’nai Mitzvah handbook, and updated event rental policies to encourage reusable dinnerware.
Through these comprehensive efforts, Temple Emanu-El continues to lead by example, keeping sustainability at the heart of the community for years to come.