Some of the winners and supporters at EcoJudaism’s Annual Community Awards
Eight Movement for Progressive Judaism communities, two cross-communal schools and one of our members won prestigious prizes at EcoJudaism’s Annual Community Awards.
The awards are presented to congregations who have displayed exceptional commitment to Jewish environmental responsibility, engaged their community in bringing these values to life, and achieved gold, silver or bronze level in EcoJudaism’s Sustainability Action Plan (SAP).
The Progressive winners on the night included Gold Awards for Edgware and Hendon Reform Synagogue, Kol Chai – Hatch End Reform Jewish Community, Newcastle Reform Synagogue and Oxford Jewish Congregation.
We are proud to list all the winners, along with the EcoJudaism judges’ comments, below:
GOLD: Edgware And Hendon Reform Synagogue (Green Team led by Angela Lipman)
This is the culmination of a five year journey for the EHRS Team, led by true Eco Champion Angela Lipman, of improving the environmental footprint of the community and reducing the impact of climate change. Angela is a dedicated to the work of EcoJudaism and its values. She recently worked tirelessly to ensure that the synagogue is 100% disposable-free. Angela is also EcoJudaism’s “go-to” for her ingenious and creative children’s events and activities, raising environmental awareness among young people.
GOLD: Kol Chai – Hatch End Reform Jewish Community (Green Team led by Michael Collins)
Kol Chai rose to the challenge of not having any green outside space by creating a superb vertical garden along a synagogue wall. To attract and nurture wildlife, they also installed a bat box as well as a Jewish insect hotel called ‘Bug Sameach’! Kol Chai is one of the first EcoJudaism members to have a carbon neutral building, a phenomenal achievement.
GOLD: Oxford Jewish Congregation (Green Team led by Kathy Shock)
Oxford Jewish Congregation is an inspiration for its commitment and support of EcoJudaism, as well as its superb generosity and innovation. It nurtures and maintains the Cumnor Hurst Community Orchard containing 50 rare fruit varieties, which was generously donated by OJC for the wider community to enjoy. In order to reduce the use of single-use plastics, the OJC operates a ground-breaking refill station permanently in situ in the synagogue, open to all. Products include handwash, dishwashing soap, general purpose cleaner and shampoo.
GOLD: Newcastle Reform Synagogue (Green Team led by Linda Scott)
Newcastle may be smaller in size, but its members have a huge commitment to the EcoJudaism Sustainability Action Plan. Working together in a tightly knit group of all ages, including young children, they bring joy to their community by celebrating all Jewish festivals from an environmental perspective.
SILVER: Southgate Progressive Synagogue (Green Team led by David Shaw)
SPS has made gigantic strides since EcoJudaism’s first visit to the shul almost four years ago, particularly under the recent inspirational SAP leadership of David Shaw. Rabbi Danny Rich is also a key part of this work.
BRONZE: Alyth (Green Team led by Suzanne Higgott)
Alyth has a huge, proactive Green Team with hands-on support from Rabbi Eliot Karsdadt. Suzanne Higgott is super-organised and already planning for an Eco Sukkot!
BRONZE: Leicester Progressive Jewish Community – Neve Shalom (Green Team led by Michelle Benn)
Whilst Neve Shalom is a tiny community, it is massive in terms of engagement – particularly through events with other faith groups and attendance at EcoJudaism’s vigils.
BRONZE: Finchley Progressive Synagogue (Green Team led by Dan Epstein)
FPS is one of the newest Sustainability Action Plan members. Dan Epstein is a full-time doctor at Barnet Hospital yet he has found the time to work tirelessly together with his enthusiastic Green Team towards this richly-deserved Bronze Award.
HONORARY AMBASSADOR: Benita Matofska of Brighton and Hove Progressive Synagogue
Benita, a member of Brighton and Hove Progressive Synagogue won EcoJudaism’s first ever Honorary Ambassador Award for her outstanding contribution and commitment to their work and values.
JUNIOR ADVOCACY AWARD: JCoSS and Alma Primary
These two cross-communal schools were worthy winners of the Junior Advocacy Award, highlighting the key role they played in the community’s historic Kol for Climate Vigil over COP30.
You can read all about EcoJudaism’s Annual Community Awards – which included winners from across the community – in The Jewish News. If you’d like to find out more, please visit the EcoJudaism website.