The gasification facility provides a green technological solution for dry agricultural waste that accumulates in open areas, causing environmental concerns such as soil and air pollution. With the help of this facility, the mountains of agricultural waste that are currently impacting the environment will be significantly reduced.
Among the participants in today's special inauguration event in Nitzana, were Eran Doron, Mayor of Ramat Hanegev Regional Council, Hila Kaplan, CEO of the council, Doron Markel, the chief scientist of KKL-JNF and Dr. Gideon Friedman, Chief Scientist at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure.
The gasification facility, created by Arava, a partner in the project, relies on advanced technology that converts greenhouse waste, such as tomato stems, into renewable energy that powers generators in the local grid. The circular economy model will contribute to better environmental conservation as part of the Israeli government's commitment to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
KKL-JNF and JNF Holland made a donation for the establishment of this innovative facility, as part of the organization's main goals to expand activities in alternative and renewable energy production for the benefit of the environment.
JNF Holland stated, "We see this project as a win-win for everyone - a solution to agricultural waste burdening the environment, assistance to the residents of the Negev and farmers, and the production of clean energy. There is no project as worthy as this, and we love doing this for the sake of Israel."
Dr. Doron Markel, Chief Scientist at KKL-JNF, said: " I congratulate the inauguration of the gasification facility in Ramat HaNegev, the first of its kind in Israel. KKL-JNF is known for its work in the field of climate and environment in a wide range of areas. This waste-to-energy project is another contribution to the organization's commitment to turning problems into solutions. The pilot's location in Ramat HaNegev aligns with KKL- JNF's dedication to strengthening the Negev and the Galilee, particularly in environmental matters. I would like to thank the donors from JNF Holland and the partners from the Ministry of Energy and Ramat Hanegev Regional Council."
Dr. Gideon Friedman, Chief Scientist at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure: "I see great importance in the field of converting waste into energy. It is a critical complementary element to solar energy and also serves as a non-electrical energy source, which is significant. We appreciate the persistence of the initiators, and this facility will serve as a demonstration and a starting point for additional facilities, where various options for waste treatment can be explored. I would also like to thank the additional contributors for the funding provided by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, as well as Ramat HaNegev Regional Council for their encouragement and hosting of the facility."
Eran Doron, Mayor of Ramat HaNegev Regional Council: "This is an important announcement for the Negev and the State of Israel. The gasification facility allows us to turn the burden of waste into an energy resource, providing a regional environmental solution while reducing air and soil pollution and the costs associated with waste transportation and disposal. I believe that this pilot will be replicated in other agricultural areas, as the South promises to be at the forefront of this field."
Hila Kaplan, CEO of Ramat HaNegev Regional Council and project initiator, said, "For 5 communities in Nitzana, this gasification facility has a life-changing impact. The piles of agricultural waste will now be transformed into renewable energy, providing fresh air and a better quality of life for the region's residents. Moreover, this is a pilot project that could potentially change the face of agricultural waste management around Israel."
Elad Topel, CEO of ARAVA EC&T: "The facility serves as a pilot in the country for treating agricultural waste into energy, and it marks the first milestone towards many more waste-to-energy facilities throughout the country."