The Charlotte Jewish News- August 2026- Page 16
Small Steps, Big Impact
By Noa Ezer
Three years ago, I set out to find a meaningful bat mitzvah project. What began as a single act of service has since grown into a lasting commitment to sustainability, one that now shapes the way I think, make decisions, and engage with the world every day.
As a student at Weddington High School and a junior member of the Shalom Green Board, I have learned that caring for the environment is not just about protecting nature. It is also about strengthening our community and living the Jewish value of tikkun olam, repairing the world.
Noa Ezer
That mission has inspired me to make more environmentally conscious choices in my own life while encouraging others to do the same. Whether it’ s reducing food waste, choosing more sustainable transportation, or being more thoughtful about clothing and consumption, I’ ve come to realize that even the smallest choices can have a meaningful impact.
One of the projects I am most proud of has been launching back-of-house composting programs at Temple Israel and Temple Beth El. I was inspired to launch these programs as my bat mitzvah project after seeing how much food waste our congregations produced and realizing that much of it could be composted instead of ending up in landfills.
Turning that idea into reality meant educating myself about local composting options, gathering information from caterers who frequently serve temple events, connecting with other stakeholders, and presenting my proposal to board members and leaders across the Shalom Park community. Like any new initiative, it took patience and persistence to get everyone on board, but seeing the programs succeed has made every challenge worthwhile.
With Shalom Green’ s support, these composting programs have already diverted more than
2,586 pounds of food waste from landfills. Knowing something I helped create is making a measurable impact has been incredibly rewarding. More importantly, it has taught me that meaningful change often begins with one person recognizing an opportunity and taking the first step.
In addition to composting, I have enjoyed educating Hebrew High students about sustainability, promoting environmental awareness at the Earth Day Shalom Park Garden event, and bringing a younger perspective to Shalom Green’ s monthly board meetings.
These experiences have taught me that leadership is not about having all the answers. It is about getting involved and inspiring others to believe their actions matter. Every conversation, volunteer project, and educational event helps build a community that is more mindful of its impact on the environment.
For me, environmental stewardship is deeply connected to my Jewish identity. Judaism teaches us to be caretakers of the Earth and to leave the world better than we found it. Every day, Shalom Green brings these important values to life by helping our Jewish community take practical action, whether through composting, gardening, educating others, or reducing waste. Being part of this mission has helped me realize that sustainability is an expression of our values and our responsibility to future generations.
I hope other teens recognize they do not have to wait until they are older to make a difference. Whether it’ s launching a sustainability initiative at school or in their synagogue, volunteering at a community garden, conserving energy at home, or
simply encouraging friends and family to make more environmentally friendly choices, every action matters.
Small steps, taken together, create lasting change. My experience with Shalom Green has shown me that my generation can lead, inspire others, and help build a healthier, more sustainable future for everyone.