Island Impacts & Legal Landmarks (Olam bashavua 1.9) - July 17, 2024
Restoration Legislation
The European Council approved the Nature Restoration Law, aiming to restore 20% of the EU's land and sea by 2030 and all necessary ecosystems by 2050, thereby enhancing efforts to mitigate climate change, ensure food security, and promote biodiversity. (Source Article: LW LLP) .
Restoration in the Torah: In this article, the author discusses the lessons from Noah's story in the Torah, emphasizing the importance of taking responsibility for environmental conservation and the collective impact of our actions on the natural world. (Torah Article)
GrowTorah Value: 🌎 Stewarding the Earth 🌎
Island Impacts & Legal Landmarks
In a landmark decision, the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea unanimously ruled that its 169 member states, including major emitters like China and the EU, must reduce emissions to protect small island nations, marking the first time an international court has addressed the intersection of oceans and climate change. (Source Article: Grist).
Impact Accountability in the Torah: In this article, the author discusses the biblical and talmudic obligation to “be a good neighbor” and the emphasis on avoiding causing any harm or damage to others. (Torah Article)
GrowTorah Value: ⚖️ Tzedaka ⚖️
[Habitat] Connection is Key
The world’s largest wildlife crossing in California is being built to allow wildlife to safely navigate busy roads, promoting biodiversity and reflecting a shift in conservation towards preserving habitat connectivity to ensure species survival. (Source Article: NYT).
Biodiversity in the Torah: In this article, the author explores the value of the continuity of species in Jewish texts and traditions, including and beyond halachic imperatives. (Torah Article)
GrowTorah Value: 🦋 Compassion for Creatures 🦋
Microplastic removal Magic
Two high school students, named Victoria and Justin, developed an energy efficient and cost effective ultrasound system that filters out 94% of microplastics from water (Source Article: Grist; Project Board; Video)
Resource Saving in the Torah: Victoria and Justin's project aligns with the Jewish principle of "bal taschit," which emphasizes preserving resources and minimizing environmental harm. In this article, the author discusses how this commandment, which prohibits wasteful destruction, applies broadly to resources like energy, clothing, and food, highlighting its ecological, social, and spiritual significance. (Torah Source)
GrowTorah Value: ✡️ Incubating Emunah ✡️
