Deep-Sea O2: The Ocean's Hidden Breath of Fresh Air (OLAM BASHAVUA 1.13) - August 14, 2024
FERC’s Spark for Renewables
The United States Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, or FERC, updated their rules to make it easier for renewable energy projects to be connected to the grid. (Source Article: EcoWatch)
Energy in the Torah: In this article, the author discusses what we can learn from the Jewish tradition about how to use energy responsibly. (Torah Source)
GrowTorah Value: 🌎 Stewarding the Earth 🌎
Bagging Success: 80% Drop in UK Beach Plastics
The number of plastic bags found on UK beaches has dropped by 80% since the introduction of a charge for single-use plastic bags, demonstrating the effectiveness of such policies in reducing plastic pollution and raising environmental awareness. (Source Article: The Guardian)
Waste Reduction in the Torah: Echoing the importance of such policies on plastic waste reduction, in this article, the author explores the mitzvah of Bal Tashchit and its implications for modern environmental and ethical practices, emphasizing the need to avoid waste and consume mindfully to benefit both individuals and the planet. (Torah Article)
GrowTorah Value: ⚖️ Tzedaka ⚖️
Pangolin Protection: Gorongosa’s Scaled Success
The pangolin, the only mammal covered in scales that curls into a ball when threatened, has been the focus of a dedicated team at Mozambique's Gorongosa National Park, which has rescued and rehabilitated over 100 of these animals since 2018, combating the severe threats of poaching for their scales. (Pangolins play a crucial role in the ecosystem by controlling insect populations, particularly ants and termites, which helps maintain soil quality and prevent pest outbreaks.) (Source Article: The Guardian)
Animals in the Torah: In this article, the author explores stories and values in Judaism that implore us to have compassion for G-d's creatures, including and beyond halachic imperatives. (Torah Article)
GrowTorah Value: 🦋 Compassion for Creatures 🦋
Deep-Sea O2: The Ocean's Hidden Breath of Fresh Air
Dark oxygen has just been discovered in the deep ocean, where metallic nodules in complete darkness create oxygen without photosynthesis, suggesting that these nodules might support deep-sea life. This finding challenges previous beliefs and underscores the urgent need to halt deep-sea mining, as 827 marine scientists from 44 countries petition to stop it before it begins. (Source Article: BBC)
Add Your Name to the Petition: as an individual, or as a scientist or policy expert.
Awe in the Torah: This chapter in Tehillim reminds us to praise Hashem for the incredible wonder of the land and seas. (Torah Source)
GrowTorah Value: ✡️ Incubating Emunah ✡️
