Sustainability
Sustainability at the Edlavitch DCJCC
In 2017, the Edlavitch DCJCC embarked on a journey to become more ethical stewards of our environment and focus our organizational practices to be more environmentally sustainable.
As a large organization, we know it is critical for us to examine our environmental footprint and enlist as many efforts as we can in decreasing it. Through efforts large and small, we are trying to embody the Jewish values of tikkun olam (repairing the world) and bal tashchit (do not waste).
Hazon Seal of Sustainability
We are proud to have received the Hazon Seal of Sustainability since 2018. Our participation in this initiative signifies that, along with two dozen other Jewish organizations, we are a national leader in the realm of sustainable practices.
The EDCJCC’s Sustainability Initiatives & Accomplishments to Date
- Convene regular meetings of our Green Team, with members representing a variety of departments and building operations.
- Serve only vegetarian food at all events offered by the Morris Cafritz Center for Social Responsibility (MCCSR).
- Installed water purifying machines on several floors of the building to encourage filling up and using reusable water bottles instead of single-use plastic bottles.
- Regularly create programming that addresses consumer choices and living a more sustainable lifestyle, including through our Preschool.
- Use eco-friendly printing and marketing solutions through our partnerships with ecoprint and others.
- Started a robust recycling program.
- Phasing in the use of compostable or biodegradable paper products at events.
- Maintain a policy that allows several staff members to work from home 2 days a week, greatly reducing commuter-associated environmental costs.
- Compost at select events throughout the year.
- Have over 50% of our Preschool families using metro/walking/biking for drop-off and pick-up every day.
Through our 2018-2019 renovation, we were able to implement more sustainable building practices including:
- Installation of a majority of lights on timers that shut off after 15 minutes of non-use that also have light-sensing devices to dim when there is increased sunlight.
- Installing LED efficient lighting throughout the building.
- Whenever possible, locally-sourced materials were used in building construction.
- Installing all Energy Star appliances throughout the building, maximizing energy efficiency.
- Meeting new DC regulations pertaining to fresh air systems throughout the building.
- Installing all new energy efficient HVAC systems in the building.
Support The EDCJCC
The EDCJCC is committed to being here today, tomorrow, and always to serve our dynamic community. Together, we can ensure the EDCJCC continues to thrive.