Eco Bible Interview: Rabbi Yonatan Neril on Faith, Sustainability & the Environment
In this thought-provoking interview, Rabbi Yonatan Neril, author of Eco Bible, explores the powerful connection between spirituality, environmental sustainability, and modern ecological challenges. From climate change and food ethics to plant-based living and responsible consumption, this conversation uncovers how ancient biblical teachings can offer guidance for today’s environmental crisis. Rabbi Neril shares his personal journey growing up in Northern California surrounded by nature, studying at Stanford University, and eventually founding the Interfaith Center for Sustainable Development in Israel. Throughout the discussion, he explains how religion and ecology are deeply interconnected and why spiritual values may be essential for solving the climate crisis. What Is the Eco Bible? Eco Bible examines hundreds of verses from Genesis and Exodus through the lens of ecological sustainability. The book combines insights from Jewish sages, biblical commentary, and modern environmental science to explain how scripture relates to issues such as: Climate change Wildfires and natural…
A Jewish Approach to Climate Change – Rabbi Yonatan Neril
This video features Rabbi Yonatan Neril, founder and director of the Interfaith Center for Sustainable Development, discussing how Jewish tradition and biblical teachings relate to today’s climate crisis. Drawing from his work on the bestselling book Eco Bible, Rabbi Neril explores how ancient Jewish texts provide timeless guidance on environmental stewardship, responsibility, and sustainable living. Throughout the talk, he connects religious wisdom with modern ecological challenges, showing how faith communities can play a critical role in addressing climate change. His message highlights that caring for the Earth is not only a scientific or political issue, but also a deeply spiritual and ethical responsibility shared across generations. Key Themes Covered in the Video 1. Faith and Environmental ResponsibilityRabbi Neril explains how the Hebrew Bible emphasizes stewardship of nature, encouraging humans to act as caretakers rather than exploiters of the Earth. His analysis from Eco Bible connects scripture with modern environmental science.…
Sitting In An Idle Car While Texting
Many people leave their car engine running while parked and spend time texting or messaging friends. What could we say to encourage them to reconsider this behavior and make a more environmentally conscious choice?
Greenland Is Melting
This powerful video highlights a striking and alarming climate event: rain falling on the Greenland Ice Sheet, a phenomenon that was previously unheard of in recorded history. The Greenland Ice Sheet has long been one of Earth’s most stable and frozen regions—acting as a natural “air conditioner” for the planet. Its transformation signals a rapid shift in global climate conditions. The speaker reflects on how unprecedented warming has reached even the Arctic, where melting ice and rising temperatures are reshaping ecosystems and weather patterns worldwide. Regions that were once among the coldest on Earth are now experiencing extreme heat, with temperatures in parts of Europe and North America reaching record-breaking levels. Key Themes Covered in the Video 1. A Historic Climate Event Rain falling on the Greenland Ice Sheet is presented as a symbolic and scientific warning that Earth’s climate system is undergoing rapid change. 2. Arctic Amplification and Global…
Rodeo Drive and Consumerism
Filmed on the iconic Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, this video explores the powerful connection between luxury culture, desire, and modern consumerism. Standing among world-famous fashion brands including Saint Laurent, Ralph Lauren, and Billionaire, the speaker reflects on how consumerism has become one of the dominant forces shaping society today.
Nature, the Outdoors, and Summer Camps
Summer camps are often located in beautiful natural settings, yet surprisingly few place a strong emphasis on ecology, sustainability, or meaningful environmental education. While many camps are surrounded by forests, lakes, and open landscapes, campers are not always encouraged to deeply engage with nature or reflect on humanity’s relationship with the natural world.
Have You Ever Cut Down a Tree?
Have you ever cut down a tree? Most people living in modern Western societies have not — yet the average person consumes the equivalent of a large tree every year through paper products, cardboard, furniture, housing materials, and disposable goods.
London Eco Synagogue: Insights from Rabbi Jonathan Wittenberg
This inspiring video highlights how one Jewish community has reimagined its Kiddush gatherings with sustainability and environmental responsibility at the center. By reducing waste, eliminating disposable plastics, and introducing composting systems, the community is creating a practical model for greener communal living.
Ecology and Theology: More in Common than You Think
Professor Tommy Givens of Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California explores the growing need to incorporate ecological awareness and environmental ethics into theological education and clergy formation. Speaking at the Los Angeles Symposium on Ecologically Informed Theological Education, he reflects on how seminaries and religious institutions can better prepare faith leaders to address today’s environmental challenges.