Spring is here at last, which also means the Jewish celebration of Passover is shortly upon us. Passover celebrates the journey to freedom of the Israelites from Egyptian slavery around the 1200s B.C.E.

In the spirit of its main theme, freedom, Passover is a time for us to reflect on our ability to make environmentally-responsible choices and commitments. These choices could be driving less, consuming less and supporting local food producers. Passover is also a special time for family to join together to celebrate the warmth of home and time-honoured traditions.

When planning and preparing for Passover this year consider these simple steps to have a more environmentally-friendly celebration.

Preparation

Unleavening your Home
According to Jewish mysticism, leavening not only has a physical meaning (to cause to rise) but a symbolic one as well. It’s seen as the swelling up of excess in our own lives—the pharaoh within each of us swelling us up in grandiosity. In this sense, overconsumption can be seen as “leavening” and Passover teaches us that cleaning is a time to simplify our lives.

Before Passover, the house needs to be thoroughly cleaned so that all chametz (leavened, grain products, etc.) are removed (examples include bread, crackers, cake). Avoid throwing these items out. Instead, donate them to a food bank or shelter, put them in storage or “sell” them through your Rabbi or synagogue and repurchase them for use after Passover.

You should also take this opportunity to avoid using chemical-based cleaners to clean your home. These are harmful to the environment and toxic to us. Opt for safer, natural cleaning alternatives.

Covering Surfaces
It is customary to cover any surfaces that will be used for food or utensils on Passover (e.g. tables, countertops, cabinets and stovetops). Often aluminum foil or another disposable material is used to cover these areas. This year use cardboard, cloth or another reusable material.

The Seder

The Sedar is the ritual feast that marks the beginning of Passover

Servingware
Many people kasher (make kosher) their dishes for Passover (consult your Rabbi). Others use special Passover dishes kept in storage the rest of the year. Avoid using disposable dishes and utensils that end up in landfills.

Food
Passover is the perfect time to think about eating seasonally. The best way to green your menu is to purchase local and organic ingredients, and buy less meat.

Some possible vegetarian dishes you could serve are: vegetarian matzo ball soup, sweet potato kugel, rice pilaf, stuffed zucchini or eggplant, even fruit compote for dessert.

Passover presents the perfect opportunity to reflect on our desire to live healthy and sustainably in our world. Even if you don’t normally equate sustainability with religious holidays, we encourage you to try it this Passover. We were given an amazing, beautiful planet that we must look after.

Visit Earth Day Canada’s EcoAction Teams Program for more tips on greening your life.