Location of hazardous materials plants in Israel

The study described in this article examines the distribution of hazardous materials plants in Israel during 2002–2010. In particular, it focuses on densely populated areas destined for future urban expansion, areas in proximity to rivers and water sources, and main transportation arteries. The survey identified certain hazardous materials plants (representing 10% of all such plants in Israel) as highly dangerous owing to the kinds of substances they contain, the nature of their industrial activities, and potential environmental hazards. The location of hazardous plants showed a correlation between population density and industry, with the highest concentration of plants found in Tel Aviv (30%), Haifa and adjacent industrial areas (25%), and Ashdod (12%). Significant concentrations of hazardous plants were also found in Ramat Hovav, Netanya, and Acre (Akko). From 2000 to 2010, the number of hazardous materials plants known to the Ministry of Environmental Protection increased by 62%, with most of the increase concentrated in such coastal cities as Haifa and Tel Aviv, the rest in Israel’s northern and southern (Negev) regions. Further analysis of these data revealed problems resulting from the proximity of these sites to potable and irrigation water sources and to transportation arteries. The main purposes of the study were, first, to develop a geo-tool for informed decision-making regarding the location of hazardous materials plants, and, second, to examine the distribution of such plants in Israel in order to prevent future industrial accidents. This article is part of a comprehensive study on the role of environmental policy in the planning of hazardous materials plants in Israel.