Eco Challenge 2024 January

Tu BiShvat Ecological Celebration Plan

In Judaism, the act of planting trees is often associated with environmental stewardship and ethical responsibility. The concept of environmental consciousness is rooted in various Jewish teachings and values, emphasizing the importance of preserving and protecting the natural world.

One specific practice related to tree planting is the observance of Tu BiShvat, also known as the "New Year for Trees." Tu BiShvat usually falls in late January or early February and marks the beginning of the agricultural year for trees in the land of Israel. On this day, Jewish communities often engage in tree-planting activities and celebrate the beauty of nature.

The connection between Judaism and tree planting can also be found in biblical and Talmudic teachings. The Torah emphasizes the significance of trees, both for their practical uses (such as providing wood for the Temple and fruit for sustenance) and for their symbolic importance. There are specific laws in the Torah, such as those found in Deuteronomy 20:19-20, that prohibit the destruction of fruit-bearing trees during times of war.

Additionally, the concept of "Bal Tashchit," which means "do not destroy" in Hebrew, is a general principle in Jewish ethics that encourages the responsible use of resources and discourages wastefulness. Planting trees aligns with this principle, as it contributes to environmental sustainability and the well-being of the Earth.

In contemporary times, many Jewish environmental organizations and initiatives focus on tree planting and environmental conservation as a way to connect Jewish values with ecological responsibility. This reflects a broader understanding that caring for the environment is not only a practical necessity but also a moral imperative in line with Jewish teachings.

ACTION ITEMS

Trees Atlanta Front Yard Initiative
Residents of participating cities can apply for up to 3 free trees to be planted in their front yard!

The Yard Tree Program enables property owners in the cities of Atlanta, Brookhaven, Decatur, Doraville, Unincorporated Dekalb County, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs and Smyrna to have trees planted in their yard at no cost to the homeowner.

Trees Atlanta provides advice on species selection and where to plant the tree, brings the tree to you, and plants it! Homeowners help with watering in its first growing season to get it established and some easy basic care.

 Apply for a Tree Here

Jewish National Fund (JNF) Plant a Tree In Israel
As we grapple with the devastating news coming from Israel, we can help. Planting trees in Israel is a beautiful way to show you care.

Since 1901, JNF has:

• Planted more than 250 million trees
• Built over 250 reservoirs and dams
• Developed over 250,000 acres of land
• Created more than 2,000 parks
• Provided the infrastructure for over 1,000 communities
• Connected thousands of children and young adults to Israel and their heritage

The invasion of Israel in 2023 brought terrible desolation and destruction, but you can be part of rebuilding and restoring the land to even greater beauty and utility. For just $18, you can plant a tree in Israel and receive a certificate recognizing your contribution. For $100, your family can plant a grove of 10 trees for just $10 per tree. Add planting a tree in Israel to your Tu Bi'Shvat celebrations!

 Purchase a Tree in Israel Here

MJCCA Tu BiShvat Eco-Carnival
Attend this FREE Eco-Carnival  on Sunday, January 21 at 2:00 pm and connect with the environment through hands-on crafts, games, and eco projects children ages 4-11 and their families. 

 Learn More About the Eco-Carnival Here

Tu BiShvat Tree Planting with Adamah ATL/GIPL
Grab a shovel and participate in a tree planting on Sunday, January 28 at 1:00 pm.

These trees will provide cleaner air, cool shade, and all around improved habitat for humans and wildlife living in our community. Planting tasks include digging holes with shovels/mattocks, untangling roots with your hands, mulching, watering, and cleaning up your area. Physical activity such as bending, lifting, and kneeling is required. Tree planting can be physically strenuous - be ready to break a sweat and get dirty!

Volunteers will sign a waiver upon arrival at the project. You can preview our liability and photo release waiver here. There is no need to print a waiver ahead of time unless you are 16 or 17 and attending without a parent/guardian.

All ages are welcome at this project. Volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian. Volunteers who are 16+ are allowed to attend without a parent/legal guardian present if they bring a signed waiver with them to the project.

Meeting location details will be emailed to all registrants two weeks before the planting.

 Learn More & RSVP Here

Complete one or more of the Action Items above to meet the challenge!

EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES

• Trees Atlanta has several resources to help learn about the benefits of trees and the types and care of trees in the metro Atlanta area. Trees Atlanta
• Did you know that the olive tree is the national tree of Israel? Find out more about trees and Judaism with these fun facts! 10 Jewish Facts About Trees
• That Tu Bishvat has come to be associated with sensitivity to and appreciation of the natural environment is not by chance. Trees occupy a special place in Jewish thought, which closely relates to man’s relationship with the natural environment, our life-support system. Trees In Jewish Thought
• Trees were viewed in both economic and symbolic terms by the rabbis of talmudic times. What The Talmud Teaches About Trees
• Trees play an important role in the Torah. Here are 10 special trees whose stories are woven into the familiar narratives of the Five Books of Moses. 10 Historic Trees In The Torah

CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION

Congratulations on completing the January Eco Challenge! By completing one or more of the above Action Items and learning more about trees in Judaism, you are entitled to download the January Eco Challenge Certificate. Collect all twelve certificates to demonstrate your commitment as a Shomrei Admah, a Guardian of the Earth!

 Download the Certificate Here

 Return to the Main Eco Challenge Page Here