US appoints environment policy head
THE UNITED Synagogue has appointed Naomi Verber as head of environmental policy to spearhead its efforts to combat climate change.
Mrs Verber has a background in management consultancy, specialising in business change and development. She has served as chair and vicechair of Golders Green Synagogue and worked with environmental charity Sadeh to establish Europe’s first kosher eco hotel in Kent.
She will implement a strategy to lead the US towards the adoption of policies to improve its ecological impact, working closely with the Office of the Chief Rabbi, US ministers and lay leaders and the organisation’s head office.
Mrs Verber said that as a former shul chair, “I know the challenges in being more environmentally responsible. I am delighted how seriously the United Synagogue is taking the climate crisis by creating this role.”
US president Michael Goldstein noted that like
Covid, “climate change is one of the issues of our generation. And just as countries, organisations and individuals had to act in the face of a global pandemic, so too must we act to prevent further global warming.
“The decisions we take in the coming years will affect our children and grandchildren in profound ways. And with this ambitious role, we are committed to take steps to inspire and engage our rabbinic and lay leaders and our communities on this crucial issue.”
Mr Goldstein added: “We welcome Naomi to the role and know that with her track record in this area, she is well placed to help us think through the most effective ways we and our communities can deliver significant and lasting positive change.”
I am delighted at how seriously the US is taking climate change’