By: Annie Wolock for the Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor: A2J Climate Circle
Caring for our planet starts at home. Local energy programs can help you live your Jewish values and make 2026 a little greener.
One of the most effective ways to help combat climate change is by making our homes more energy-efficient. This year, why not make that your New Year’s resolution?
A good first step is a home energy audit — and if you live in Ann Arbor or anywhere in Washtenaw County, there are several free or low-cost ways to get one:
- Ann Arbor residents: The A2Zero program offers free home energy audits. Visit a2zerohea.org to learn more.
- Washtenaw County offers free energy audits to income-qualified individuals. See washtenaw.org/773/Home-Weatherization-Program.
- DTE customers: DTE Energy also offers rebates for home energy assessments (search for “DTE energy audits” for details).
Last year, I had an A2Zero audit done on my own home, and it was eye-opening. The report compared my home’s energy use to that of similar homes, identified areas for improvement, and estimated costs, savings, and my home’s carbon footprint, both before and after upgrades. It gave me a clear, personalized roadmap for saving energy and money.
The process of improving home efficiency and reducing emissions is called decarbonization. However, small, everyday choices matter too: wash clothes in cold water, take shorter showers, plan meals to minimize food waste, compost your scraps, eat more plant-based meals, and repair or reuse items before buying new.
As we start a new year, let’s commit to caring for our planet, one home, one action at a time. Tikkun olam, the concept of repairing the world, is a Jewish value that we can live out right here in Washtenaw County. And if you’re inspired to go a step further, consider becoming an A2Zero Ambassador, as I did, to help friends and neighbors take climate action together. Learn more at a2zero.org/ambassador.
About the Ann Arbor Jewish Climate Circle (A2J CC)
Most Jews in the Ann Arbor area believe that climate change is an important issue—perhaps the most significant challenge of our generation. Most of us also understand that Jewish tradition calls us to improve the world for future generations.
The A2J Climate Circle is designed to bring our community together in climate action and create momentum and support.
Started by the JCRC (Jewish Community Relations Committee) of the Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor, with Annie Wolock (Federation) as the leader, the A2J Climate Circle Planning Committee currently includes Ellen Abramson (Jewish Family Services), Rena Basch (Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Congregation), Mike Shriberg (Temple Beth Emeth), and Michael Simon (Beth Israel Congregation). The Planning Committee contacted local Jewish organizations to partner with A2J CC on this initiative.
All area Jewish organizations and groups, large and small, are encouraged to join us.