Environment
The threats of polluted air and water, species extinction and environmental injustice are dire. Global climate change roars ahead, disrupting the health of ecosystems and endangering entire nations of people.
Still, a major change has taken place around environmental awareness across America. Green living has become a prevalent ideal — for individuals, cities (check out San Francisco’s ban on plastic bags) and even huge corporations like Wal-Mart. And, most importantly, people across the world are beginning to act out in inspiring, grassroots ways on behalf of the planet.
Neither the ancient Israelites nor the Talmudic Rabbis could ever have imagined things like global climate change, exhaust-induced asthma or holes in the ozone layer. But Jewish tradition does contain a lot of wisdom about respecting the beauty of the natural world, sustainable farming and land stewardship. Did you know, for example, that one of the mitzvot (biblical commandments) prohibits unnecessary waste?
Ways to Serve Now
- Join a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program or a community garden.
- Organize a park/river/trailhead cleanup or tree planting in your neighborhood.
- Reduce the waste stream by recycling, composting and using reusable bags and water bottles.
- Offset your carbon footprint.
- Bike or walk instead of drive to short destinations (and learn to fix a flat).
Find more opportunities at Repair the World’s service opportunities page.
Learn More
From Waste to Wonder Rabbi Natan Margalit, Tikkun, 7.2004
Judaism and Ecology Resources, Canfei Nesharim
Judaism & the Environment Docs, COEJL
Treasures in the Garden Nigel Savage/Hazon
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