Inspiring Climate Action: Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz’s Video Campaign

In the face of pressing environmental challenges, faith traditions provide profound teachings that inspire action. Among the leaders spotlighting this intersection of faith and sustainability is Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz, whose participation in the Interfaith Center for Sustainable Development’s video series brings Jewish values to the forefront of the climate conversation.

Rabbi Shmuly, a dynamic educator, social activist, and Modern Orthodox leader, is featured in two short yet impactful videos produced by Nas Daily Studios. These clips, part of a broader series aiming to reach millions, highlight the Jewish principles of compassion and environmental stewardship. With engaging storytelling, the videos illuminate how ancient teachings can drive contemporary climate action.

Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz provides powerful insights in videos that connect faith traditions to key environmental issues. Photo by and courtesy of JLM.

Bal Tashchit: A Commandment Against Waste

In one video, Rabbi Shmuly introduces the Jewish principle of Bal Tashchit—“Do not destroy” or “Do not waste.” This commandment, rooted in the Bible’s prohibition against cutting down fruit trees during wartime, has evolved into a broader ethic against wastefulness. Rabbi Shmuly underscores its relevance in today’s age of excess, where one-third of food is wasted, and consumption often exceeds need.

Through Rabbi Shmuly’s passionate delivery, the video conveys that Bal Tashchit is more than an abstract ideal; it is a call to action. Small, mindful steps—reducing food waste, conserving energy, and consuming thoughtfully—can collectively safeguard the planet for future generations.

Veganism and Faith: A Wedding Day Transformation

In another video, Rabbi Shmuly shares his journey to veganism, which began on his wedding day. His decision was rooted in the recognition that factory farming inflicts unnecessary suffering on animals—a direct contradiction to the Jewish principle of preventing harm to living beings (tsa’ar ba’alei chayim). By committing to veganism, Rabbi Shmuly and his wife pledged not only to each other but also to a lifestyle of reducing suffering for all creatures.

This story transcends religious boundaries, emphasizing that compassion and sustainability are universal values. As Rabbi Shmuly explains, faith is a powerful motivator for everyday actions that contribute to the well-being of all living beings, not just humans.

Amplifying Jewish Voices in the Climate Dialogue

Rabbi Shmuly’s contributions to this video series are part of a larger initiative to showcase religious perspectives on environmental responsibility. By collaborating with Nas Daily Studios, the Interfaith Center for Sustainable Development ensures that messages like Rabbi Shmuly’s reach a global audience across platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.

As Rabbi Shmuly demonstrates, Jewish teachings provide both the ethical framework and the spiritual motivation to tackle the climate crisis. His videos are an invitation to reflect on our shared responsibility and to take action grounded in faith and compassion.

Whether through adopting plant-based diets, minimizing waste, or embracing mindful consumption, these messages resonate far beyond the Jewish community. They remind us that by drawing on our values, we can unite across faiths to create a sustainable future.

Join the Movement

Rabbi Shmuly’s videos are not just stories; they are calls to action. View them on social media under the “eco interfaith” tag and discover how faith can inspire a more sustainable way of life. Together, we can honor the teachings of our traditions while building a healthier planet for all.