You probably know about the environmental conference in Copenhagen to address climate change. Many of the world’s leaders, including US President Barack Obama and Israeli President Shimon Peres, have gathered to discuss what may be the most important issue facing the international community today. It is an issue that requires unprecedented global cooperation, and it is important for countries to realize that some things, like the fate of our beloved Earth, are bigger than specific international disputes. The goal of the meeting, which many believe is far too lofty, is for many nations to come together and agree on a new treaty limiting carbon emissions; ideally, this will be one much like the Kyoto Protocol in that it will require nations to take serious steps to limit greenhouse gas output (except this time, the US might actually sign on).
This article talks briefly about Israel’s role in the Copenhagen conference. Prime Minister Netanyahu did not seem overly enthusiastic about the conference, so Israel will be sending its president, who has much more informal power than formal power. Even if it was not Netanyahu’s intent to do so, this gesture may reflect poorly on Israel’s commitment to international cooperation about climate change. It’s possible, even, that Peres’ attendance will be insufficient to ensure Israel’s full participation in the result of the conference. Yet, in a country ravaged by war and conflict, who has time to talk about saving the Earth?
Well, there are a few reasons Israel should be active in the discussion about climate change. One, Israel’s unique history allowed it to develop without many of the harmful effects of industrialization. Because Israel was able to “borrow” technology from many other nations and progress quickly, the nation has been able to overcome many of the negative environmental costs inherent in economic development. As such, Israel is in a position where it can be a powerful force in terms of creating green technology. While many developing countries, such as India and China, argue that caps on emissions are going to harm economic development, Israel can use its advantaged position to lead the region (and the world) in terms of good environmental policy.
Two, Israel is a country built upon Jewish ideals. If we are the shepherds of the Earth, then we must take steps–at the local, regional, and national level–to strive to do better by our source of life. As the Jewish environmental movement grows, we can watch the connection between Jews, G-d, and the Earth strengthen. Israeli national policy can and should be based on this notion.
Three, the power of a gesture of goodwill should never be underestimated. It goes without saying that Israel is a nation constantly bombarded with hate, propaganda, and violence. The best way to undermine these assumptions is for Israel to actively do things that improve its image. If it can lead by example and do a great deal of positive work for the planet, then maybe Israel can create an independent source of international goodwill. While such things may not bring an immediate end to the strife there, Israel can certainly use as much international support as it can get.
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