Environmental Health and Justice (1999)
WHEREAS Jewish tradition teaches us that humankind's unique place in the natural order enables us to transform the natural world to pursue human development and requires us to safeguard ecological systems so that the diversity of life can thrive; and
WHEREAS, humankind has a solemn obligation to future generations to live within the ecological limitations of the earth so that all people can live, work, study and play in environments free of dangerous air, water and land pollution; and
WHEREAS, there is limited research about the potential of some of the thousands of commonly used chemicals to cause harm to adults and children; and
WHEREAS, individuals, businesses and governments have a responsibility to prevent harm to the public
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that The United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism joins the Rabbinical Assembly in calling upon the Federal and state governments to:
- Ensure that adequate research regarding the potential of widely used toxic chemicals to cause harm to children and adults be conducted;
- Regulate the use of hazardous materials based upon the best scientific information available in a manner that prudently protects human life and health;
- Regularly inform the public, through product labeling and other means, of known and suspected dangers to their health from industrial and government facilities, food, water, air, household supplies and other consumer products;
- Require testing of any new products and processes subject to regulation that raise the likelihood of unreasonable risk of harm to the environment or public health before they are approved for production and use;
- Support pollution prevention and the development of non-toxic alternatives to hazardous materials; and
- act and enforce needed regulations in a manner that (a) is least burdensome to individuals and businesses while meeting strict standards; and (b) adequately protects all people, regardless of race, color, or ethnic origin.
