Action Tips: Have a Green Hanukkah

Hanukkah was green from the get-go! The story of the Jewish holiday — the miracle of a small amount of oil lasting eight days — is truly a story of energy conservation.

Hanukkah literally means dedication, so it’s very fitting for you to commit to a greener, more sustainable lifestyle and to share your environmental choices with family and friends. Spread the message by making your Hanukkah traditions eco-friendly and giving gifts that are environmentally and socially responsible! Here’s how:

The Menorah

The classic oil-burning menorah uses olive oil and cotton wicks, a great substitute for common wax candles (which are oil-based), but if you must go the candle route, purchase made in America since foreign-made have used a lot of fuel to get here, and some may have lead in the wicks.

And if you want to go the extra mile, get some beeswax candles, which aren't made with petroleum materials and will fulfill the mitzvah.

As for the menorah, find one made out of a natural material like glass or metal, or make one from recycled materials from around your home like ornaments or magnets, or even food!

Dreidel

Buy or make your dreidel out of sustainable wood. And when the game's one, play for fair-trade chocolate coins, locally grown fruits and nuts, or small earth-friendly gifts.

Gifts

Eight nights means a lot of gift-giving! Give something recycled, sustainable, Made in America, or all three! Remember to thank your host with fair-trade flowers!

Food

Volunteer to cook the food this year. Make latke and soofganiyot using products from your local farmers market. Yes, you can get all the ingredients (including the potatoes, cheeses, egg and jams) there!