An article published in Detroit Jewish News
March 27, 2026
By Ashley Zlatopolsky
As Metro Detroit families prepare for Passover, many are looking beyond traditional rituals to consider how the holiday can serve as an opportunity to reflect on environmental sustainability and climate action.
Reimagine the Seder Plate
One of the most impactful ways to introduce sustainability into your seder is by creatively rethinking the traditional items on the seder plate.
Ari Cohen, climate action coordinator for Adamah Detroit, encourages hosts to explore alternatives that are symbolic and eco‑friendly.
For folks like myself who are vegetarian or may be intimidated by the roasted shank bone, a great alternative is roasted beet. It’s symbolic, with red colors representing the parting of the Red Sea, and it’s much more eco-friendly than meat.
Cohen also suggests encouraging seder hosts to grow their own greens, like parsley, or to use spring onions that can be regrown from their white stems. Instead of throwing items away, this practice helps promote new life and connects participants to the “roots” of their food sources.
Melt an Ice Cube to Spark Conversation
In recent years, a powerful symbol has appeared on seder tables nationwide: an ice cube.
As the ice melts during the evening, it becomes a living metaphor for the rapid effects of climate change and the urgency of acting before time slips away.
It symbolizes all of the different impacts that come with climate change. As this ice block melts, it represents the limited time we have to deal with this crisis.
Adamah offers printable discussion prompts that can help families dig into the meaning of this symbolic addition and have a rich, tableside conversation about stewardship and responsibility.
Cut Down on Dish, Food and Floral Waste
Passover can generate a surprising amount of waste, from disposable dishes to leftover food.
An easy way to cut down on waste is investing in a set of Passover-specific dishes that can be reused year after year.
If folks have the capacity and the space, taking a bit of extra time to do hand-washing instead of throwing out disposables is certainly something that helps the environment,”
When reusable dishware isn’t an option, compostable alternatives are encouraged. Composting leftovers keeps organic material out of landfills and contributes to soil health and ecosystems.
Flowers also offer a chance to rethink tradition. Rather than bringing home cut bouquets that wilt in a day or two, consider gifting potted bulbs like tulips that will return each spring.
Slow Down and Get Outside
Cohen emphasizes the value of connecting with nature in the days leading up to the seder. An outdoor walk not only aligns with spring’s arrival but also provides inspiration for table decor.
There’s a lot of great elements in our natural spaces that we can use to decorate our seder tables, Cohen says.
Activities like grating fresh horseradish root for maror or sprouting your own quinoa are also small ways to slow down and engage more deeply with the food on your table.
Invite All Ages to Participate
Sustainable seders are opportunities to involve kids in deeper learning. Beyond the traditional Ma Nishtana (“Why is this night different from all other nights?”) that opens the Four Questions, families can add questions related to food systems, growth and environmental impact.
Asking children, “How do you think this food grew?” or “Where did this plant come from?” invites curiosity and helps link Jewish tradition with ecological learning.
Make It Your Own
Passover’s themes of freedom, renewal and liberation often resonate with contemporary concerns about climate and justice.
Whether through intentional food choices, symbolic rituals like the melting ice cube or deeper family discussions that connect ancient tradition to present realities, there are countless ways to make this year’s seder both meaningful and sustainable.
“We’re certainly thinking about future generations at the seder table,” Cohen says.
We’re thinking about preserving our heritage, rituals and customs. It’s our imperative as a Jewish people to think about all the great resources we’re fortunate to find ourselves amongst. That’s something the Passover story reminds us of.
This article was originally published by The Detroit Jewish News.