In honor of Tu Bishvat, this week we're featuring Israel's very own one man carbon-offsetting marvel, Eyal Biger, who displays leadership and successful grass root efforts in the field of environment conservation and energy.

EDU Topic: Environmentalism - Green Energy / Leadership

Intro:

Eyal Biger learned early on that preaching his cause didn't create the change he was looking for. So he decided to lead by example, or as he puts it he just "walks the walk", by creating and using practical environmental solutions in his own home. From man-powered generators to homemade diesel fuel, this one man carbon-offsetting marvel excels at showing everyone how easy and practical it is to be environmentally conscious.

Click here for more on how carbon offsetting works and what you can do to offset your carbon footprint.

Background text about Eyal Biger:

Eyal Biger is leading environmentalist in the field of practical production of reused biodiesel in Israel. He holds an M.Sc. from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and is an environmental consultant for the industry. In 2007 he established the Good Energy Initiative , a non-profit organization and the only one in Israel working toward carbon offsetting.

Discussion Ps & Qs:

- Before you saw this film, did you know it was possible to make fuel in your backyard?
- What are ways that you can work in your community to help the environment?
- What is a leader? Do leaders make a difference?  Name 2 of Eyal's leadership qualities.
-  Eyal rejects working in the context of the United Nations to effect environmental change. Instead, he prefers “grass roots” personal initiatives. Can “grass roots” efforts really make a change?

Was this post helpful?  Are you using our materials in your classroom?  Do you have suggestions about other Jewish music ideas or what to add to this post to make it more helpful for others? Please let us know.  We're also happy to hear general comments, feedback, etc.  Cheers.