Once a month, we like to offer a community eco suggestion. The health of the planet is everybody’s concern, and as Jews we have the special responsibility of Tikkun Olam.
This month, in the week of Tu B’Shvat, we’d like to suggest the idea of planting a tree.
You can plant a tree at any time of the year, not just at Tu B’Shvat, but now would be a resonant time for a Jewish family to organise a tree planting. It’s a good time for nature too: the Woodland Trust says “tree planting season runs between November and March, although it can stretch a bit longer in Scotland.”
If you have a garden or an allotment, you might be able to plant a tree directly yourself. The Scottish Wildlife Trust has a handy online guide for tree planting.
Alternatively, an organisation called Trees For Life “will plant and dedicate trees in Scotland on your behalf. These trees will grow alongside other native trees, and in time will transform open hillsides into healthy young woodland, helping to restore the Caledonian forest. This rich habitat will support wildlife such as red squirrel, black grouse, capercaillie, pine marten and golden eagle.”
National Trust Scotland, meanwhile, already has an impressive tree-planting project. You could get involved today by dedicting a tree to yourself or a loved one with an easy one-off donation.
