We are about to celebrate our last Tu B’Shevat of the 20th century.
The holiday called Jewish Arbor Day has since the beginning of Labor Zionism symbolized the return to and revival of the land. These days, an increasing number of Jews hold Tu B’Shevat seders, where they bless fruits and wines symbolizing the seasons and God’s presence in the natural world.
As we stand at the edge of the millennium, Tu B’Shevat offers an opportunity to look at the state of the earth today and to commit ourselves to helping its preservation.
The environmental movement has accomplished much since its inception 30 years ago.
Regulations have been put in place holding industries and even individuals accountable for damaging actions.
Grassroots organizations and politicians who are passionate about the sanctity of the earth have helped raise environmental consciousness. A good percentage of people in the civilized world, for example, know the meaning of global warming.
But with pollution on the rise, the thinning of the ozone layer, the depletion of precious rain forests, and the extinction of more and more species, much remains to be done.
Many of us care about the state of the planet we will leave behind to future generations, but don’t know how to translate that concern into action.
Environmentalism does not require strapping oneself to trees, however.
Instead, try recycling. Take public transportation when possible, and trade in your gas guzzler for a more energy-efficient model. Consider getting involved in grassroots groups and in community projects such as beach clean-ups. Support politicians advancing pro-environment slates.
And remember: As consumers, we hold tremendous power. Informing ourselves about companies’ environmental activities, and supporting those with good records, is not just an imperative. It is also a social responsibility.
And a Jewish one, as well.