Rabbi Yonatan Neril Introduces the Interfaith Climate and Energy Conference

In this powerful opening address from the Interfaith Climate and Energy Conference in Jerusalem, Rabbi Yonatan Neril, Founder and Director of the Interfaith Center for Sustainable Development, explores the connection between faith, spirituality, and the global environmental crisis.

Rabbi Neril shares a profound story about a child holding a bird and asking whether it is alive or dead. The wise person responds that the fate of the bird is in the child’s hands. This story becomes a powerful metaphor for humanity’s responsibility today: the future of all living beings on Earth depends on the choices we make.

As scientists warn about climate change, biodiversity loss, shrinking forests, rising temperatures, and growing environmental challenges, Rabbi Neril explains that the ecological crisis is not only a scientific or political issue — it is also a spiritual challenge.

The environmental crisis reflects an imbalance in the way humanity relates to nature, consumption, and our own deeper values. It is a crisis of human consciousness and a reminder that sustainable change requires not only new technologies and policies, but also a transformation of how we live.

Rabbi Neril highlights the unique role of religious communities in addressing these challenges. Faith traditions around the world offer teachings on compassion, responsibility, moderation, and respect for creation. Together, religious communities have the ability to inspire millions of people and create meaningful environmental action.

Please see our video of the Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem Theophilos III speaking on ecology at the Interfaith Climate and Energy Conference in Jerusalem for more.