Jewish Sustainability: Environmental Responsibility from Theory to Practice

Sustainability and environmental conservation are some of the most significant challenges that we as humanity currently face. Even a skeptical approach to the warnings of experts leaves us with a tremendous danger that threatens our existence as well as further generations, and some of the phenomena already have manifested before our eyes. This reality requires us to search for appropriate methods to overcome this, while balancing between the needs of the present and our responsibility towards the future.

The compilation before you deals with the binding halachic perspectives of environmental issues. Mitzvot like “do not destroy a fruit tree” (Bal Tashchit), the Shemita year, and halachot of animal cruelty translate into a moral and environmental compass for a sustainable life. Our goal with this compilation is to express the great potential that exists within this. This is a groundbreaking compilation, for it is written in the primary language of Judaism – halacha – and thus acts as a foundation for practical cooperation, even with those who have different religious and philosophic roots. In this manner we can not only address the crisis, but also lead to conversation and offer solutions for the entire world.

Our deep appreciation goes to the Phoenix group for their gracious support in compiling the research regarding sustainability. Their commitment to furthering values of sustainability and the environment enables us to bring this important content to the greater public.

Table of Contents

Introduction – Rabbi Yuval Cherlow

Introduction – Meni Neeman

1. Forward
2. Introduction – The Four Pillars of Jewish Sustainability
3. The First Pillar: Man and the World
4. The Second Pillar: the Individual and Society
5. The Third Pillar: Pikuach Nefesh and Anticipating the Future
6. The Fourth Pillar: Restraint and Self-Control in a Bountiful Society
7. Do Not Destroy – Bal Tashchit
8. Sustainability – Practical Halachot
9. Introduction: Sustainability as a Halachic Consideration
10. Expenses of Environmental Sustainability from Ma’aser Kesafim
11. The Extermination of Chametz
12. Geniza and Recycling
13. Solar Panels on a Synagogue’s Roof
14. Burial and Sustainability
15. Be Fruitful and Multiply
16. Abstaining from Eating Meat
17. The Halachot of War and Destruction
18. Concluding Remarks