Beginning in 2019, Berkeley Hillel implemented a new sustainability policy in response to the growing crises of our climate, food systems, and animal welfare. We believe that Jewish values compel us to take drastic steps as an institution and to educate our stakeholders about these issues in order to affect change wherever possible. We strive to live by, and empower others to live by, the values of baaal taschit and tzaar baalei chayim — to avoid unnecessary destruction and the suffering of animals wherever we can. 

Berkeley Hillel adheres to the tenets of “reducitarianism,” a belief that, among other things, there is a more substantial benefit in a large segment of the population making gradual changes, rather than only a smaller segment of the same population making radical changes. As an institution influencing people at a crucial developmental period of their lives, Berkeley Hillel seeks to instill lifelong practices, rooted in Jewish values, in those who engage with our program.

Berkeley Hillel is making a change to help people, animals, and the planet, and we’re excited about how these changes are taking effect.