JTA: The Global News Service of the Jewish People

Green Beanie Winner

First Place (tie): Jewish Reconstructionist Congregation

http://www.jrc-evanston.org In 2008, a 475-member synagogue congregation in Evanston, Ill., became the first house of worship to secure a Platinum LEED certification, widely seen as the most difficult and expense "green" standard (see usgbc.org for more info on LEED certification). Starting with nothing more than a commitment to define themselves as stewards of the Earth and to take seriously the Jewish value of bal taschit (do not waste), members of the shul's board passed a unanimous statement declaring their intention to build as green as 'feasible' as they planned for their new communal home. Further, to develop its commitment into everyday practice both communally and personally, the congregation developed "Green Living Policies,” a document approved by its board to guide the congregation in responsible building/operations practices. The synagogue's Web site is both inspirational and instructive, showing how much can be done with good intentions.
Specifics on some of the innovation used to reach LEED Platinum certification can be found here. Click here for a virtual tour of the building.

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