Righteous Indignation, Ch. 11 (p 79-84)

Righteous Indignation, Ch. 11 (p 79-84)
Judaism, Oil, and Renewable Energy -- Shana Starobin

(1) "Unfortunately, many of us live as if the miracle of Hanukkah is an ongoing reality. We act as though oil--a non-renewable resource--will continue to power our economy long after the time scientists tell us it will surely be used up" (p 79).

To learn about Peak Oil, consider these films and books: A Crude Awakening, The Power of Community, and Plan C. Whether there is enough oil to fuel our world for 20 years or 100 years, we still need to be using present reserves to power the development of renewable methods. We cannot just pretend that once we're 5 years away from depletion that we will be able to pull things together and make a smooth switch to new ways of living.

Does your local electricity provider offer renewable energy sources? In what ways can you personally conserve electricity, coal, oil and natural gas?

(2) "According to [Deuteronomy 10:19], fruit trees are innocent bystanders in a human conflict. In comparing fruit trees to humans, the Torah implies that trees (like human beings) have inherent value and are deserving of honor and respect" (p 82).

"As Sefer Hachinuch so beautifully teaches, our ability to conserve natural resources is connected to our ability to recognize our blessings..." (p 82).

So we are taught to minimize the damage to the earth from human activity. We are taught to consider the perpetuity of life--both human life and plant life (elsewhere, animals as well). We are taught that sustainability requires an understanding of today's actions on tomorrow's reality. What I cut-down won't feed me next season; what I use up this year can't fuel my lifestyle in the next decade.

To you what is the strongest motivator to invest in renewable energy sources--climate change, Peak Oil, ecological conservation, or human impact (such as on the U'wa or Nigerians)? Other motivations? What renewable source of power do you believe is most promising? What possible negative impact might it have?