OPINION The Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan is proud to host regular forums for ideas that allow for open conversation and dialogue on topics related to Israel and the world. We present the following op-ed section in a similar vein: in the hope that open, honest dialogue will take root, and that we may participate in that dialogue with you, our community. To reach us with your thoughts, email Rebecca Grossman at rgrossman@mmjccm.org.
ISRAEL’S RESPONSE TO THE GLOBAL CLIMATE CRISIS By Minister of the Knesset Alon Tal The dust has settled now, after the build-up and then the two-week deliberations at the recent COP26 climate summit in Glasgow. All agree that in contrast to the high expectations, world leaders did not take the dramatic actions needed to significantly reduce global warming. Nonetheless, the event was not devoid of disparate agreements that can certainly be categorized as progress. The United States, once again, assumed a leadership role; after four years of despondence following President Trump’s denial of the crisis, the international community is again focused on finding solutions.
A bold commitment that by the year 2050, Israel would have “net zero” emissions of greenhouse gases The debate as to whether Glasgow was a reasonable success or a resounding failure 8
resonates among environmental circles within Israel as well. As a member of Israel’s Knesset who spent his career as an environmental activist and researcher, I surely have an opinion. Charles Dickens might call Israel’s present climate crisis response “the worst of times” and “the best of times.” Glasgow provided the stimulus for a meaningful upgrade in Israel’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gases. Two important cabinet decisions for the first time set quantifiable objectives for a range of relevant parameters, such as renewable energy targets, electric vehicle promotion, solid waste/methane management, and energy efficiency. Most importantly, just prior to leaving for the gathering, Prime Minister Naftali Bennet made a bold commitment that by the year 2050, Israel would have “net zero” emissions of greenhouse gases. In doing so, the country joins a growing number of
