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INTRODUCTION

In 1992, the Temple Emanuel Board of Trustees adopted an environmental policy statement which contained a number of environmental goals and reflected the Temple's strong commitment to the ecological principles of Judaism.

Since that time, a number of goals have been implemented, including the installation of a solar collector for operating the eternal light, an energy audit by PEPCO, and investigation of several recycling activities and environmentally-friendly products. The Temple's Green Shalom Committee has continually promoted environmental stewardship during this period. The Temple has been recognized nationally for its environmental activities.

In early 2003, the Temple completed an extensive renovation and expansion of its physical facilities, using environmentally sound planning principles and products wherever feasible. The Temple has been designated as an Official Partner of the Energy Star Buildings for Congregations Program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

POLICY GOALS

To continue and expand the scope of the Temple's environmental stewardship and education programs, the Temple Emanuel Board of Trustees adopts the following action-oriented goals:

1. Schedule an updated PEPCO audit of the Temple's new facilities, seek regular audits every five years, and implement further energy conservation recommendations where feasible.
   
   
2. Develop and implement a comprehensive landscaping plan for the Temple that takes advantage of native plant materials, avoids harmful chemical fertilizers and pesticides, conserves water, and provides aesthetic and environmental benefits.
   
   
3. Complete and maintain the small biblically-inspired garden on the Temple grounds, and develop an educational experience relating the plantings to major Jewish holidays. Use native plants as substitutes wherever possible.
   
   
4. Work with the Kensington Ministerium, Shomrei Adamah, and the Coalition on Jewish Life and the Environment (COEJL) to promote environmental stewardship at the local, regional, and national levels.
   
   
5. Review and evaluate Temple recycling programs and improve/expand recycling where feasible, including the use of high recycled content paper in the Temple Offices and Religious School.
   
   
6. Inventory and evaluate the cleaning products being used by the Temple, eliminate toxic cleaners, and substitute environmentally-friendly products where practical.
   
   
7. Explore the possibility of using "greening" strategies in the selection of food and the disposal of waste.
   
   
8. Working with the Rabbi and the Green Shalom Committee, promote environmental awareness and education for all Temple members by:
   
   
   
   1. Conducting an annual Shabbat service with an environmental theme, and a Tu B'Shevat service with a focus on environmental appreciation and healthful foods.
      
      
   2. Arranging periodic service-related environmental readings at Shabbat services.
      
      
   3. Providing environmental study opportunities through adult education courses, coffeehouse programs, book reviews, speakers, etc.
      
      
   4. Incorporating the Jewish dimension of environmental stewardship into the religious school curricula, including lectures, field trips, readings, discussion, etc.
      
      
   5. Conducting a periodic workshop on Judaism and the environment for religious school teachers.
      
      
   6. Promoting carpooling and other transportation alternatives that improve air quality and reduce congestion and parking problems.
      
      
   7. Working with the Rabbi and the Social Justice Task Force, pursue opportunities for environmental advocacy.