Kol Chai reaffirms commitment to Eco Synagogue scheme

Kol Chai leadership marked a special environment-themed Tu b’Shvat event by reaffirming the synagogue’s commitment to the national Eco Synagogue scheme. The initiative requires the shul to cut carbon emissions and use of plastic, as well as educate members on how they can live greener lives.

On Sunday, 9th February, a capacity audience heard an expert panel of Henrietta Bewley (geologist & Extinction Rebellion), Andree Frieze (Eco Synagogue) and Cath Goldstein (XR Jews) expound their views and explain the science behind the crisis we all face.

Chaired by Kol Chai’s Rabbi Naomi, the excellent panel provoked challenging questions from the audience, who discovered practical changes and contributions the Jewish Community could make to combat climate change.

After the event, held under the title, ‘Our Climate Change Crisis’, Peter Gartenberg, Kol Chai’s adult education organiser said: “many attendees showed interest in joining Extinction Rebellion and Kol Chai has now committed to becoming an ‘Eco Synagogue’.

Lesley Etkind