ADAMTEVAV’DIN

Annual Donor Report

שמירת האדמה

כל ישראל ערבים זה לזה

שלום בית

אומץ לב

צדק צדק תרדוף

2014

Our visionA safe and healthy environment for all Israelis.

Our mission We use the power of law, science and advocacy to address environmental concerns which impact on the human lived-in environment. Our agenda includes reducing chemical exposure in the everyday environment; incorporating environmental considerations in economic decisions; balancing urban development with environmental and social considerations, and empowering communities to take part in decisions affecting their local environment.

Our assetsOur assets are our people and our 25 years’ experience as national environmental watchdogs. With an expert, in-house team of multi-disciplinary professionals, from senior attorneys to environmental interns, from scientists to urban planners, we have the resources, experience and determination to devise lasting solutions for critical environmental challenges.

דרך ארץ

1

Executive Director: Amit Bracha, Adv.

Scientists: Sarit Caspi-Oron, Roy Kozer, Dr. Boaz Mayzel,

Dr. Arye Wanger

Attorneys: Orly Ariav, Eli Ben Ari, Ori Ettinger, Tammy Ganot,

Leehee Goldenberg, Shelly Lev Sherman, Asaf Rosenblum,

Daphna Shalev-Korenblit

Urban Planner: Yael Dori

Online Information Center: Karen Adomi

Media: Yael Edelist

Fundraising: Hayley Lipshitz, Fran Ran

Outreach & Membership Services: Roni Larom, Chen Offek

Finance & Administration: Nessi Ashkenazi, Iris Zar

Law Clerks & Interns: Joan Azam, Gabriel Bourdon, Arie Fridson,

Nechama Miller, Avi Toeg

Dear Friends,

If Hillel the Sage were alive today, I’m sure he would have been part of Adam Teva V’Din’s team.

Hillel asked tough questions, like a true environmental advocate. His famous questions, “If I am only for myself, what am I?

If not now, when?” continue to motivate our advocacy efforts.

We use cutting-edge legal approaches, start-up scientific tools and modern social media outlets.

Along with our innovative advocacy, our principles remain rooted in age-old Jewish values. They are more relevant than ever. Tzedek - Justice, ArvutHadadit - Communal Responsibility and Shmirat Ha’Adama – Protecting the Earth are the ideals which spur environmental action!

Our Jewish traditions are centered on community. That’s why I’d like you to meet Miriam, Danny and Eve. They are the true heroes of this report and the reason we do the work we do.

In the pages of this report, you will see how we have worked with these typical Israelis to bring meaningful change to Israel’s environment (pages 4-9).I am excited to share with you selected achievements from the past year; achievements which were only made possible by your generous support and friendship.

But, we still need your help. Environmental and health threats may change over the years, but they never disappear. And as Hillel says, the time to act is now! If we don’t look after our environment and health, who will?

Please again show your support by contributing now.

With sincere thanks and best wishes,

Amit Bracha

Executive Director

OUR PEOPLE

1

Executive Director: Amit Bracha, Adv.

Scientists: Sarit Caspi-Oron, Roy Kozer, Dr. Boaz Mayzel,

Dr. Arye Wanger

Attorneys: Orly Ariav, Eli Ben Ari, Ori Ettinger, Tammy Ganot,

Leehee Goldenberg, Shelly Lev Sherman, Asaf Rosenblum,

Daphna Shalev-Korenblit

Urban Planner: Yael Dori

Online Information Center: Karen Adomi

Media: Yael Edelist

Fundraising: Hayley Lipshitz, Fran Ran

Outreach & Membership Services: Roni Larom, Chen Offek

Finance & Administration: Nessi Ashkenazi, Iris Zar

Law Clerks & Interns: Joan Azam, Gabriel Bourdon, Arie Fridson,

Nechama Miller, Avi Toeg

Dear Friends,

If Hillel the Sage were alive today, I’m sure he would have been part of Adam Teva V’Din’s team.

Hillel asked tough questions, like a true environmental advocate. His famous questions, “If I am only for myself, what am I?

If not now, when?” continue to motivate our advocacy efforts.

We use cutting-edge legal approaches, start-up scientific tools and modern social media outlets.

Along with our innovative advocacy, our principles remain rooted in age-old Jewish values. They are more relevant than ever. Tzedek - Justice, ArvutHadadit - Communal Responsibility and Shmirat Ha’Adama – Protecting the Earth are the ideals which spur environmental action!

Our Jewish traditions are centered on community. That’s why I’d like you to meet Miriam, Danny and Eve. They are the true heroes of this report and the reason we do the work we do.

In the pages of this report, you will see how we have worked with these typical Israelis to bring meaningful change to Israel’s environment (pages 4-9).I am excited to share with you selected achievements from the past year; achievements which were only made possible by your generous support and friendship.

But, we still need your help. Environmental and health threats may change over the years, but they never disappear. And as Hillel says, the time to act is now! If we don’t look after our environment and health, who will?

Please again show your support by contributing now.

With sincere thanks and best wishes,

Amit Bracha

Executive Director

OUR PEOPLE

Courageאומץ לב

32

When it comes to advocacy you need ‘Ometz Lev’,the strength of heart, to stand up for your beliefs, even if you may counter resistance along the way.

This year, Adam Teva V’Din initiated a series of innovative polices and controversial reforms. We are confronting powerful commercial and governmental stakeholders. Many of these stakeholders are encountering, for the first time, Adam Teva V’Din as a strong and vocal environmental watchdog.

Tackling these new challenges requires endurance and resolve. But we are not daunted by the pressures of the country’s most powerful players.

Health

As the only environmental

NGO addressing

environmental health in Israel,

we wrote a legislative bill

aimed at reducing our

exposure to pesticides in the

everyday environment.

We are now working with

primary stakeholders,

including the Ministry of

Agriculture and Farmers’

Union, to gain their support

before the bill begins the

parliamentary process.

Marine

Even though the Mediterranean is a vital

component in Israel’s economy, tourism and

defense sectors, Israel has no regulations for

managing the marine environment. Now that

marine resources, such as offshore natural gas,

are being exploited, it is imperative to fill this

legislative void. We have completed Israel’s first

Marine Management Bill, based on eco-system

based approaches. The bill will bring Israel up to

pace with modern European Union standards of

marine environmental protection.

Organic waste

Because land-filled organic waste impacts on

soil, groundwater, biodiversity and climate

change, we spearheaded national action on food

waste from commercial and institutional

sources. Our innovative model of policies and

practices developed with stakeholders from

restaurants, hotels, and supermarkets could lead

to recycling of 60,000 tons organic waste

annually.

Tackling new frontiers

Confronting powerful stakeholders

Coasts

Over 50 pre-approved construction plans

threaten to take over the remaining 10 miles of

coastline open and accessible to the Israeli public.

Many of these plans date back to the British

mandate and are out of step with today’s

environmental and planning standards. Our

amendment to the Coastline Protection Act

(2004) will fix this anomaly. A special Knesset

review board has recognized the gravity of the

situation and is examining our bill. As originators

of the bill, we are bringing our expertise to the

table as public representatives.

Oil drillingIn our second victory against powerful energy

stakeholders, the High Court of Justice swiftly

responded to our petition and ordered a halt to all

oil drilling operations in the Golan Heights until

comprehensive environmental and health

assessments are conducted. The oil drilling

project threatens to endanger Israel’s primary

source of drinking water, the Kinneret, Sea of

Galilee.

Natural resources

The Sheshinski 2 Commission, responsible for

examining how Israel manages its natural

resources, was given a limited mandate to

review only royalty and tax policies.

Despite an aggressive PR campaign by

industrialists, the Commission adopted our

recommendations for higher tax rates. Our

recommendations will add more than 100

million dollars annually to the national budget.

Public representationThe Head of the Planning Administration

cancelled public environmental representation on

Israel’s most important planning committee. This

is the committee which determines the fate of

Israel’s landscape. Our tough questions interfered

with the planners’ goal of short-cutting and

fast-tracking planning procedures. We turned to

the Minister of Interior and State Comptroller and

raised public awareness to reverse the

anti-democratic decision. We succeeded: our

position was rightfully restored. This was a victory

for the environmental movement and for Israel’s

civil society.

“Not by might, not by power,

but by my spirit alone”

Zechariah 4:6

Courageאומץ לב

32

When it comes to advocacy you need ‘Ometz Lev’,the strength of heart, to stand up for your beliefs, even if you may counter resistance along the way.

This year, Adam Teva V’Din initiated a series of innovative polices and controversial reforms. We are confronting powerful commercial and governmental stakeholders. Many of these stakeholders are encountering, for the first time, Adam Teva V’Din as a strong and vocal environmental watchdog.

Tackling these new challenges requires endurance and resolve. But we are not daunted by the pressures of the country’s most powerful players.

Health

As the only environmental

NGO addressing

environmental health in Israel,

we wrote a legislative bill

aimed at reducing our

exposure to pesticides in the

everyday environment.

We are now working with

primary stakeholders,

including the Ministry of

Agriculture and Farmers’

Union, to gain their support

before the bill begins the

parliamentary process.

Marine

Even though the Mediterranean is a vital

component in Israel’s economy, tourism and

defense sectors, Israel has no regulations for

managing the marine environment. Now that

marine resources, such as offshore natural gas,

are being exploited, it is imperative to fill this

legislative void. We have completed Israel’s first

Marine Management Bill, based on eco-system

based approaches. The bill will bring Israel up to

pace with modern European Union standards of

marine environmental protection.

Organic waste

Because land-filled organic waste impacts on

soil, groundwater, biodiversity and climate

change, we spearheaded national action on food

waste from commercial and institutional

sources. Our innovative model of policies and

practices developed with stakeholders from

restaurants, hotels, and supermarkets could lead

to recycling of 60,000 tons organic waste

annually.

Tackling new frontiers

Confronting powerful stakeholders

Coasts

Over 50 pre-approved construction plans

threaten to take over the remaining 10 miles of

coastline open and accessible to the Israeli public.

Many of these plans date back to the British

mandate and are out of step with today’s

environmental and planning standards. Our

amendment to the Coastline Protection Act

(2004) will fix this anomaly. A special Knesset

review board has recognized the gravity of the

situation and is examining our bill. As originators

of the bill, we are bringing our expertise to the

table as public representatives.

Oil drillingIn our second victory against powerful energy

stakeholders, the High Court of Justice swiftly

responded to our petition and ordered a halt to all

oil drilling operations in the Golan Heights until

comprehensive environmental and health

assessments are conducted. The oil drilling

project threatens to endanger Israel’s primary

source of drinking water, the Kinneret, Sea of

Galilee.

Natural resources

The Sheshinski 2 Commission, responsible for

examining how Israel manages its natural

resources, was given a limited mandate to

review only royalty and tax policies.

Despite an aggressive PR campaign by

industrialists, the Commission adopted our

recommendations for higher tax rates. Our

recommendations will add more than 100

million dollars annually to the national budget.

Public representationThe Head of the Planning Administration

cancelled public environmental representation on

Israel’s most important planning committee. This

is the committee which determines the fate of

Israel’s landscape. Our tough questions interfered

with the planners’ goal of short-cutting and

fast-tracking planning procedures. We turned to

the Minister of Interior and State Comptroller and

raised public awareness to reverse the

anti-democratic decision. We succeeded: our

position was rightfully restored. This was a victory

for the environmental movement and for Israel’s

civil society.

“Not by might, not by power,

but by my spirit alone”

Zechariah 4:6

Representing the public before lawmakers

5

Together with community activists, we went

head to head with an oil industry Goliath and

stopped an untested fracking project.

Cracking down on fracking

The Judean Hills, known

as the ‘Tuscany of

Israel’, attracts cyclists,

hikers and tourists from

Israel and abroad. The

hills are carpeted with

colorful wildflowers.

The forests are home to

a wealth of wildlife. The land tells stories of

biblical heroes and Hasmonean kings.

An oil shale pilot project, led by Israel Energy

Initiative (IEI), would have transformed the

sensitive region into a polluting petrochemical

industrial zone. The company planned to employ

thermal fracking techniques which have not been

used successfully anywhere else in the world

and which posed serious risks to the

environment and public health.

In a modern-day David vs. Goliath

saga, the Jerusalem District Planning

Committee accepted our position and

rejected the project, unanimously

favoring ‘Shmirat Ha'Adama’ over

potential profit.

Investing in a renewable energy economy

The Knesset approved a bill, originated

at Adam Teva V’Din, setting up a Designated

Fund whereby a portion of the anticipated

revenues from offshore natural gas exports will

be dedicated to promoting renewable energies.

We have convinced lawmakers to make a

tangible investment in their commitment to

pursue renewable energy alternatives.

4

“I refused to let the fracking industry ruin one of the most beautiful places in Israel. I couldn’t let the region be the guinea pig for untested fracking technologies.

I was worried about how fracking would affect my livelihood. I was also concerned about the environmental and health ramifications for my children and their grand-children.

By combining our local protest with Adam Teva V'Din's professional advocacy, we convinced planners that it makes no sense to drill for oil in such a unique and historic region.”

Danny, a community activist, led his

neighbors in a series of local protests

Protecting the Earthשמירת האדמה

“One generation goes and

another generation comes,

but the Earth remains forever”

Kohelet 1:4

What does ‘Shmirat Ha’Adama’ have to do with developing the energy economy in the historic Judean Hills?

Adam Teva V'Din believes that fundamental

environmental, health and heritage values must be

considered when developing new energy sources.

We support developing Israel’s energy sector by

promoting the transition from polluting fossil fuels to

clean, renewable energy sources. This year, we

successfully blocked two controversial oil drilling

projects in sensitive regions.

Representing the public before lawmakers

5

Together with community activists, we went

head to head with an oil industry Goliath and

stopped an untested fracking project.

Cracking down on fracking

The Judean Hills, known

as the ‘Tuscany of

Israel’, attracts cyclists,

hikers and tourists from

Israel and abroad. The

hills are carpeted with

colorful wildflowers.

The forests are home to

a wealth of wildlife. The land tells stories of

biblical heroes and Hasmonean kings.

An oil shale pilot project, led by Israel Energy

Initiative (IEI), would have transformed the

sensitive region into a polluting petrochemical

industrial zone. The company planned to employ

thermal fracking techniques which have not been

used successfully anywhere else in the world

and which posed serious risks to the

environment and public health.

In a modern-day David vs. Goliath

saga, the Jerusalem District Planning

Committee accepted our position and

rejected the project, unanimously

favoring ‘Shmirat Ha'Adama’ over

potential profit.

Investing in a renewable energy economy

The Knesset approved a bill, originated

at Adam Teva V’Din, setting up a Designated

Fund whereby a portion of the anticipated

revenues from offshore natural gas exports will

be dedicated to promoting renewable energies.

We have convinced lawmakers to make a

tangible investment in their commitment to

pursue renewable energy alternatives.

4

“I refused to let the fracking industry ruin one of the most beautiful places in Israel. I couldn’t let the region be the guinea pig for untested fracking technologies.

I was worried about how fracking would affect my livelihood. I was also concerned about the environmental and health ramifications for my children and their grand-children.

By combining our local protest with Adam Teva V'Din's professional advocacy, we convinced planners that it makes no sense to drill for oil in such a unique and historic region.”

Danny, a community activist, led his

neighbors in a series of local protests

Protecting the Earthשמירת האדמה

“One generation goes and

another generation comes,

but the Earth remains forever”

Kohelet 1:4

What does ‘Shmirat Ha’Adama’ have to do with developing the energy economy in the historic Judean Hills?

Adam Teva V'Din believes that fundamental

environmental, health and heritage values must be

considered when developing new energy sources.

We support developing Israel’s energy sector by

promoting the transition from polluting fossil fuels to

clean, renewable energy sources. This year, we

successfully blocked two controversial oil drilling

projects in sensitive regions.

“We have the same rights as everyone else to live in a clean and healthy neighborhood.

For years, the stench was so unbearable that I couldn't open my doors and windows or hang my laundry outside. Is this a way to live?

Life is hard enough as it is for the residents of Kiryat Gat. All we had to boast about was fresh air and some greenery. The sludge factory and planned power plant threaten to take that away from us.

It is a relief to know that Adam Teva V’Din cares so much. When my neighbors lost hope, Adam Teva V’Din was always by my side.”

Miriam, a Kiryat Gat resident, is fighting to

maintain her community's quality of life.

“Do not spoil and destroy

the world; for if you do,

there will be no one

to repair it.”

Midrash Kohelet Rabbah, 7:13

Location is everything

Kiryat Gat, a development

town in the northern

Negev, has a history of

environmental hazards.

Chronic environmental

injustices add to the

city’s existing social and economic challenges.

For over eight years, residents of the western

neighborhoods were subjected to foul odors

originating from an illegally operated sewage

sludge treatment factory adjacent to their

homes. Despite the positive environmental

benefits of treating sludge for agricultural

fertilizer, the stench produced in the process

severely impacted on the health and quality of

life of the neighboring residents.

We provided community activists with pro bono

professional guidance throughout their legal

battle. We advised them how to demand

solutions from the local authorities and the

Ministry of Environment.

Their case reached the High Court

of Justice which ordered the

relocation of the factory to a

more suitable location away from

their homes.

Planning natural-gas power plants properly

Planning authorities accepted in full

our objections (on planning & health

grounds) to locating a new, natural

gas-fired power station adjacent to

residential neighborhoods. On the

face of it, natural gas would bring

cleaner and cheaper energy to

Kiryat Gat. But its proposed location at the city’s

western entrance, where additional residential

development is planned, negates basic health

and planning principles. We called to relocate the

proposed plant to the existing industrial zone to

the east of the city.

Adam Teva V’Din views environmental justice as the

cornerstone of our agenda. We believe that in keeping

with the moral fiber of Israel as a leading democracy, we

must uphold the environmental rights of all Israelis with

the same vigor as all other human rights.

Through our Environment & Community program we

offer pro bono legal, scientific and urban planning advice

to grassroots activists to improve environmental and

health conditions in their neighborhoods. We help Israelis

have a say in decisions that affect their communities.

What does 'Tzedek' have to do with finding the right locations for green industrial activities?

Pursue Justiceצדק צדק תרדוף

76

“We have the same rights as everyone else to live in a clean and healthy neighborhood.

For years, the stench was so unbearable that I couldn't open my doors and windows or hang my laundry outside. Is this a way to live?

Life is hard enough as it is for the residents of Kiryat Gat. All we had to boast about was fresh air and some greenery. The sludge factory and planned power plant threaten to take that away from us.

It is a relief to know that Adam Teva V’Din cares so much. When my neighbors lost hope, Adam Teva V’Din was always by my side.”

Miriam, a Kiryat Gat resident, is fighting to

maintain her community's quality of life.

“Do not spoil and destroy

the world; for if you do,

there will be no one

to repair it.”

Midrash Kohelet Rabbah, 7:13

Location is everything

Kiryat Gat, a development

town in the northern

Negev, has a history of

environmental hazards.

Chronic environmental

injustices add to the

city’s existing social and economic challenges.

For over eight years, residents of the western

neighborhoods were subjected to foul odors

originating from an illegally operated sewage

sludge treatment factory adjacent to their

homes. Despite the positive environmental

benefits of treating sludge for agricultural

fertilizer, the stench produced in the process

severely impacted on the health and quality of

life of the neighboring residents.

We provided community activists with pro bono

professional guidance throughout their legal

battle. We advised them how to demand

solutions from the local authorities and the

Ministry of Environment.

Their case reached the High Court

of Justice which ordered the

relocation of the factory to a

more suitable location away from

their homes.

Planning natural-gas power plants properly

Planning authorities accepted in full

our objections (on planning & health

grounds) to locating a new, natural

gas-fired power station adjacent to

residential neighborhoods. On the

face of it, natural gas would bring

cleaner and cheaper energy to

Kiryat Gat. But its proposed location at the city’s

western entrance, where additional residential

development is planned, negates basic health

and planning principles. We called to relocate the

proposed plant to the existing industrial zone to

the east of the city.

Adam Teva V’Din views environmental justice as the

cornerstone of our agenda. We believe that in keeping

with the moral fiber of Israel as a leading democracy, we

must uphold the environmental rights of all Israelis with

the same vigor as all other human rights.

Through our Environment & Community program we

offer pro bono legal, scientific and urban planning advice

to grassroots activists to improve environmental and

health conditions in their neighborhoods. We help Israelis

have a say in decisions that affect their communities.

What does 'Tzedek' have to do with finding the right locations for green industrial activities?

Pursue Justiceצדק צדק תרדוף

76

Domestic Harmonyשלום בית

9

A microcosm of Israeli society

The town of Beit Shemesh, 30 minutes outside

of Jerusalem, has become a symbol of Israel’s

internal strife between the Ultra-Orthodox

community and its more secular residents.

An expedited development strategy calls to build

10 new neighborhoods for Ultra-Orthodox

communities in the Ellah Valley bordering Beit

Shemesh.

The plans are undermining civil stability in the town

and threaten to ravage sensitive green open

spaces, an important ecological corridor

and historical treasures from the time of

King David. They also fail to balance the

special needs of the Ultra-Orthodox

community, such as low-rise housing

and numerous public institutions, with

smart-growth planning principles.

In the spirit of 'Shalom Bayit', we are

working to advance planning approaches

which respect the landscape, history and

lifestyles of all residents.

As of November 26, the construction of

seven of the new neighborhoods has

been halted thanks to an injunction

issued by the Jerusalem District Court.

The Court immediately responded to our

petition which urgently called to cease all

damage to the landscape until a comprehensive

planning framework for Beit Shemesh, including

environmental assessments, is devised.

Landmark ruling prevents urban sprawl

On a national front, we persuaded the National

Planning & Building Council to reject a reform

which would have allowed building on

inter-urban buffer zones and green belts

throughout the country. The reform threatened

to destroy forests,

coastal sand dunes,

unique heritage

sites and ecological

corridors, even

though there is

plenty of room to

build inside the

cities. This decision

will prevent urban

sprawl and

preserve green

buffer zones, crucial to our quality of life.

8

What does ‘Shalom Bayit’ have to do with solving social and urban planning dilemmas in Beit Shemesh?

9

Adam Teva V’Din understands that we must plan our

cities in a way which best utilizes Israel’s limited land

resources while at the same time meets the needs of

diverse communities living in close quarters.

The accelerated growth of our cities highlights the

need to maintain 'Shalom Bayit'.

We are here to ensure that there will be green nature

reserves with historical treasures; swimming pools and

sports centers for secular residents; synagogues and

mikvot (ritual baths) for their religious neighbors. We

promote planning solutions which protect the rural

landscape and accommodate the needs of all lifestyles.

“I have no voice in what’s happening. The new neighborhoods will affect our quality of life and ruin the precious open spaces around the town.

We turned to Adam Teva V’Din to help us protest the planners' decisions by filing formal planning objections. It's the only hope we have left to have a say in our town”.

Eve, a long-time Beit Shemesh resident, fears she is losing her say in the

community.

“My kids deserve to have a decent quality of life which suits our way of life. I was told that neighborhoods were being built specially for Ultra-Orthodox families. But people like me are being accused of taking over the town. Where am I supposed to live?”

Shlomo, an Ultra-Orthodox resident of Beit Shemesh, is

frustrated by the lack of housing for the

Ultra-Orthodox population.

“It is forbidden to live in

a town, which has no

garden or greenery”

Jerusalem Talmud,

Kiddushin 4:12

Domestic Harmonyשלום בית

9

A microcosm of Israeli society

The town of Beit Shemesh, 30 minutes outside

of Jerusalem, has become a symbol of Israel’s

internal strife between the Ultra-Orthodox

community and its more secular residents.

An expedited development strategy calls to build

10 new neighborhoods for Ultra-Orthodox

communities in the Ellah Valley bordering Beit

Shemesh.

The plans are undermining civil stability in the town

and threaten to ravage sensitive green open

spaces, an important ecological corridor

and historical treasures from the time of

King David. They also fail to balance the

special needs of the Ultra-Orthodox

community, such as low-rise housing

and numerous public institutions, with

smart-growth planning principles.

In the spirit of 'Shalom Bayit', we are

working to advance planning approaches

which respect the landscape, history and

lifestyles of all residents.

As of November 26, the construction of

seven of the new neighborhoods has

been halted thanks to an injunction

issued by the Jerusalem District Court.

The Court immediately responded to our

petition which urgently called to cease all

damage to the landscape until a comprehensive

planning framework for Beit Shemesh, including

environmental assessments, is devised.

Landmark ruling prevents urban sprawl

On a national front, we persuaded the National

Planning & Building Council to reject a reform

which would have allowed building on

inter-urban buffer zones and green belts

throughout the country. The reform threatened

to destroy forests,

coastal sand dunes,

unique heritage

sites and ecological

corridors, even

though there is

plenty of room to

build inside the

cities. This decision

will prevent urban

sprawl and

preserve green

buffer zones, crucial to our quality of life.

8

What does ‘Shalom Bayit’ have to do with solving social and urban planning dilemmas in Beit Shemesh?

9

Adam Teva V’Din understands that we must plan our

cities in a way which best utilizes Israel’s limited land

resources while at the same time meets the needs of

diverse communities living in close quarters.

The accelerated growth of our cities highlights the

need to maintain 'Shalom Bayit'.

We are here to ensure that there will be green nature

reserves with historical treasures; swimming pools and

sports centers for secular residents; synagogues and

mikvot (ritual baths) for their religious neighbors. We

promote planning solutions which protect the rural

landscape and accommodate the needs of all lifestyles.

“I have no voice in what’s happening. The new neighborhoods will affect our quality of life and ruin the precious open spaces around the town.

We turned to Adam Teva V’Din to help us protest the planners' decisions by filing formal planning objections. It's the only hope we have left to have a say in our town”.

Eve, a long-time Beit Shemesh resident, fears she is losing her say in the

community.

“My kids deserve to have a decent quality of life which suits our way of life. I was told that neighborhoods were being built specially for Ultra-Orthodox families. But people like me are being accused of taking over the town. Where am I supposed to live?”

Shlomo, an Ultra-Orthodox resident of Beit Shemesh, is

frustrated by the lack of housing for the

Ultra-Orthodox population.

“It is forbidden to live in

a town, which has no

garden or greenery”

Jerusalem Talmud,

Kiddushin 4:12

Communal Responsibilityכל ישראל ערבים זה לזה

1110

“If I am only for myself,

what am I?”

Pirkei Avot 1:14 Is the Jewish value of communal responsibility, becoming harder to find these days?

Adam Teva V’Din believes that it is our moral and social responsibility to take these words to heart and to stand up for the rights of those suffering from environmental burdens. This is especially important when it comes to minority groups and vulnerable communities who suffer the most from environmental injustices. These communities often lack the awareness,political clout and money to fight for stronger environmental standards themselves.

This year, we continued to empower Israelis, from all walks of life, with the knowledge, skills and tools to influence the environment and quality of life in their community and beyond.

Getting the public’s voice heard

For over seven years, we worked with the

residents of Madj el Krum, an Arab village in the

Galilee, to solve severe sewage problems.

Because of insufficient infrastructure, blood, entrails and effluents from neighboring

slaughterhouses flooded the streets and urban

spaces around the village. This is a serious health

risk for all residents.

We worked closely with local activists and

municipal leaders to demand solutions and

funding from the State for a modern sewage

processing plant. This fall, we were proud to take

part in the pipe laying ceremony.

Giving the public tools to speak out

We are continuing to work with the residents of

Madj el Krum in an exciting capacity building

initiative. We are helping citizens and stakeholders

from four underserved Israeli Arab communities

in the Galilee, Madj el Krum, Nahf, Deir al-Asad

and Bi’ina, identify and overcome local

environmental problems.

Together with the Ministry of Environment, we

organized a series of stakeholder meetings and

workshops for diverse members of the sector,

from municipal officials, business people and

community and religious leaders to teachers and

concerned parents. In this way, the community is

gaining the knowledge and tools to identify and

solve environmental issues each village faces.

Helping communities help themselves

OUR SUPPORTERS

OUR FINANCES

Income 2013Foundations

Donors & members

Cooperative projects

Other misc. income

Financial income

Total

Expenditures 2013Personnel

General operating expenses

Office rental, maintenance

Outreach & publication

Total

Figures reflect the official audit for 2013 conducted by Ziv Haft/BDO, Certified Public Accounts (Israel).

An English-language version of the condensed balance sheets are available on our website:

http://www.adamteva.org.il/english

$1,156,000

$315,000

$111,000

$130,000

-$8,000

$1,704,000

$1,152,000

$272,000

$226,000

$48,000

$1,698,000

2013 was a year of real organizational

growth. New foundation grants

underwrote two major new environmental

programs, and intensive capacity-building

activities with individual donors in the U.S.

and Israel produced a 14% increase in

income over 2012.

FoundationsOur projects are supported by grants from philanthropic foundations, including:

Beracha Foundation

Jacob & Hilda Blaustein Foundation

Charles Brown Foundation

Environment & Health Fund

The Morningstar Foundation

Plum Foundation

Samuel Sebba Charitable Trust (UK)

Donors & MembersIndividual donors in the U.S.A. provide undesignated general support through the Friends of Israel's Environment. Israelis support Adam Teva V'Din as members and through social media-based fundraising campaigns.

In memory of their parents, who pioneered

environmental advocacy in Israel, the sons of

Shirley Rose and Herschell Benyamin (z"l) recently

made a generous donation to Adam Teva V'Din.

Communal Responsibilityכל ישראל ערבים זה לזה

1110

“If I am only for myself,

what am I?”

Pirkei Avot 1:14 Is the Jewish value of communal responsibility, becoming harder to find these days?

Adam Teva V’Din believes that it is our moral and social responsibility to take these words to heart and to stand up for the rights of those suffering from environmental burdens. This is especially important when it comes to minority groups and vulnerable communities who suffer the most from environmental injustices. These communities often lack the awareness,political clout and money to fight for stronger environmental standards themselves.

This year, we continued to empower Israelis, from all walks of life, with the knowledge, skills and tools to influence the environment and quality of life in their community and beyond.

Getting the public’s voice heard

For over seven years, we worked with the

residents of Madj el Krum, an Arab village in the

Galilee, to solve severe sewage problems.

Because of insufficient infrastructure, blood, entrails and effluents from neighboring

slaughterhouses flooded the streets and urban

spaces around the village. This is a serious health

risk for all residents.

We worked closely with local activists and

municipal leaders to demand solutions and

funding from the State for a modern sewage

processing plant. This fall, we were proud to take

part in the pipe laying ceremony.

Giving the public tools to speak out

We are continuing to work with the residents of

Madj el Krum in an exciting capacity building

initiative. We are helping citizens and stakeholders

from four underserved Israeli Arab communities

in the Galilee, Madj el Krum, Nahf, Deir al-Asad

and Bi’ina, identify and overcome local

environmental problems.

Together with the Ministry of Environment, we

organized a series of stakeholder meetings and

workshops for diverse members of the sector,

from municipal officials, business people and

community and religious leaders to teachers and

concerned parents. In this way, the community is

gaining the knowledge and tools to identify and

solve environmental issues each village faces.

Helping communities help themselves

OUR SUPPORTERS

OUR FINANCES

Income 2013Foundations

Donors & members

Cooperative projects

Other misc. income

Financial income

Total

Expenditures 2013Personnel

General operating expenses

Office rental, maintenance

Outreach & publication

Total

Figures reflect the official audit for 2013 conducted by Ziv Haft/BDO, Certified Public Accounts (Israel).

An English-language version of the condensed balance sheets are available on our website:

http://www.adamteva.org.il/english

$1,156,000

$315,000

$111,000

$130,000

-$8,000

$1,704,000

$1,152,000

$272,000

$226,000

$48,000

$1,698,000

2013 was a year of real organizational

growth. New foundation grants

underwrote two major new environmental

programs, and intensive capacity-building

activities with individual donors in the U.S.

and Israel produced a 14% increase in

income over 2012.

FoundationsOur projects are supported by grants from philanthropic foundations, including:

Beracha Foundation

Jacob & Hilda Blaustein Foundation

Charles Brown Foundation

Environment & Health Fund

The Morningstar Foundation

Plum Foundation

Samuel Sebba Charitable Trust (UK)

Donors & MembersIndividual donors in the U.S.A. provide undesignated general support through the Friends of Israel's Environment. Israelis support Adam Teva V'Din as members and through social media-based fundraising campaigns.

In memory of their parents, who pioneered

environmental advocacy in Israel, the sons of

Shirley Rose and Herschell Benyamin (z"l) recently

made a generous donation to Adam Teva V'Din.

Dear friends,

I’m happy to share with you this latest report on the principled and pragmatic advocacy that Adam Teva V’Din has pursued over the past year.

Amit Bracha and his team are utterly dedicated to safeguarding Israel’s environment, as reflected by their visionary efforts to forge a more sustainable energy policy for the country. At the same time, they are deeply committed to promoting a society that gives all of Israel’s citizens a voice in protecting the health and well-being of

their own communities.

During these tumultuous times, Adam Teva V’Din’s dedication to addressing real and immediate health threats in neglected segments of Israeli society, Arab and Jewish, is

more essential than ever. It reflects the close and necessary link between two important Jewish values: the pursuit of justice and the building of ‘Shalom Bayit’, or domestic harmony.

For us at the Friends of Israel’s Environment it is rewarding to support a group that is building a strong democracy and civil society in Israel. Thank you for your ongoing loyalty – it is vital to Adam Teva V’Din’s ability to honor these values!

Philip Warburg

President of Friends of Israel’s Environment

12

Philip Warburg has served as President of the Conservation Law Foundation, New England’s leading

environmental advocacy group, and as Executive Director of

Adam Teva V’Din.Israel Board of DirectorsDaliah Beeri, Tel Aviv - ChairAyal Avrech, HaifaJoseph Gross, Tel AvivGershon Grossman, HaifaJubran Jubran, Haifa Joshua G. Kiernan, Tel AvivGalit Leider, HaifaRabbi Ronen Lovitz, Nir Etzion, CarmelAnat Moseinco, Mazkeret BatyaOfra Peleg, Rishon LeZionAvigdor Vilnitz, Western Galilee

Adam Teva V’Din-IUED is a registered non-profit organization (#58-017-786-3). Contributions are eligible for tax deduction under Section 46 of the Israeli Income Tax Code.

48 Yehuda Halevy Street, Tel Aviv 65782 Israel

Dear friends,

It takes skill and knowledge to excel at what you do. But it takes character and spirit to be a ‘mensch’ while you do it.

2014 has not been an easy year for Israel. Despite heightened security tensions and political and economic pressures, Adam Teva V’Din has remained true to the values and ideals which lead their environmental advocacy.

Values such as ‘Tzedek’, ‘Ometz’ and communal responsibility are not empty phrases for Adam Teva V’Din – they are a way of life. Sustainable planning

solutions, environmental justice and environmental health reforms are not pipedreams. This winning combination of ‘Derech Eretz’, legal expertise and

commitment to improve Israel’s environment is awakening more Israelis to today’s environmental reality. More Israelis than ever are donating to Adam Teva V’Din and are joining our campaigns.

Together with friends and supporters like you, Adam Teva V’Din is showing lawmakers that environmental safeguards reflect the fundamental Jewish values upon which the State of Israel was built.

Dahlia Beeri

Chair of Israel Board

Common Decencyדרך ארץ

Dahlia Beeri is a retired architect and urban planner. She formerly

served as the Head of the Ministry for Environmental Protection’s Central Region

Division in Tel Aviv.

Friends of Israel’s EnvironmentPhilip Warburg, Boston, MA - PresidentHoward Learner, Chicago, IL – Vice PresidentEvan J. Kaizer, Los Angeles, CA – Treasurer Viva Hammer, Silver Spring, MD – SecretaryMike Gildesgame, Boston, MAArthur Kreiger, Boston, MADaniel Rosenblum, New York, NYGeri Eileen Unger, Cleveland, OH & Washington, DCJonathan Zasloff, Los Angeles, CA

Honorary Friends Representative Henry Waxman, Washington, DC & Los Angeles, CAHonorable Alan Sieroty, Los Angeles, CA

Friends of Israel’s Environment (FIE) is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization.Federal ID # 58-1959151. Contributions are eligible for tax deduction.

Friends of Israel's environment (FIE), c/o Evan Kaizer, 4182 Beck Avenue, Studio City, CA 91604

“"Proper ethical

behavior precedes

the Torah"

Midrash Leviticus

Rabbah 9:3

Dear friends,

I’m happy to share with you this latest report on the principled and pragmatic advocacy that Adam Teva V’Din has pursued over the past year.

Amit Bracha and his team are utterly dedicated to safeguarding Israel’s environment, as reflected by their visionary efforts to forge a more sustainable energy policy for the country. At the same time, they are deeply committed to promoting a society that gives all of Israel’s citizens a voice in protecting the health and well-being of

their own communities.

During these tumultuous times, Adam Teva V’Din’s dedication to addressing real and immediate health threats in neglected segments of Israeli society, Arab and Jewish, is

more essential than ever. It reflects the close and necessary link between two important Jewish values: the pursuit of justice and the building of ‘Shalom Bayit’, or domestic harmony.

For us at the Friends of Israel’s Environment it is rewarding to support a group that is building a strong democracy and civil society in Israel. Thank you for your ongoing loyalty – it is vital to Adam Teva V’Din’s ability to honor these values!

Philip Warburg

President of Friends of Israel’s Environment

12

Philip Warburg has served as President of the Conservation Law Foundation, New England’s leading

environmental advocacy group, and as Executive Director of

Adam Teva V’Din.Israel Board of DirectorsDaliah Beeri, Tel Aviv - ChairAyal Avrech, HaifaJoseph Gross, Tel AvivGershon Grossman, HaifaJubran Jubran, Haifa Joshua G. Kiernan, Tel AvivGalit Leider, HaifaRabbi Ronen Lovitz, Nir Etzion, CarmelAnat Moseinco, Mazkeret BatyaOfra Peleg, Rishon LeZionAvigdor Vilnitz, Western Galilee

Adam Teva V’Din-IUED is a registered non-profit organization (#58-017-786-3). Contributions are eligible for tax deduction under Section 46 of the Israeli Income Tax Code.

48 Yehuda Halevy Street, Tel Aviv 65782 Israel

Dear friends,

It takes skill and knowledge to excel at what you do. But it takes character and spirit to be a ‘mensch’ while you do it.

2014 has not been an easy year for Israel. Despite heightened security tensions and political and economic pressures, Adam Teva V’Din has remained true to the values and ideals which lead their environmental advocacy.

Values such as ‘Tzedek’, ‘Ometz’ and communal responsibility are not empty phrases for Adam Teva V’Din – they are a way of life. Sustainable planning

solutions, environmental justice and environmental health reforms are not pipedreams. This winning combination of ‘Derech Eretz’, legal expertise and

commitment to improve Israel’s environment is awakening more Israelis to today’s environmental reality. More Israelis than ever are donating to Adam Teva V’Din and are joining our campaigns.

Together with friends and supporters like you, Adam Teva V’Din is showing lawmakers that environmental safeguards reflect the fundamental Jewish values upon which the State of Israel was built.

Dahlia Beeri

Chair of Israel Board

Common Decencyדרך ארץ

Dahlia Beeri is a retired architect and urban planner. She formerly

served as the Head of the Ministry for Environmental Protection’s Central Region

Division in Tel Aviv.

Friends of Israel’s EnvironmentPhilip Warburg, Boston, MA - PresidentHoward Learner, Chicago, IL – Vice PresidentEvan J. Kaizer, Los Angeles, CA – Treasurer Viva Hammer, Silver Spring, MD – SecretaryMike Gildesgame, Boston, MAArthur Kreiger, Boston, MADaniel Rosenblum, New York, NYGeri Eileen Unger, Cleveland, OH & Washington, DCJonathan Zasloff, Los Angeles, CA

Honorary Friends Representative Henry Waxman, Washington, DC & Los Angeles, CAHonorable Alan Sieroty, Los Angeles, CA

Friends of Israel’s Environment (FIE) is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization.Federal ID # 58-1959151. Contributions are eligible for tax deduction.

Friends of Israel's environment (FIE), c/o Evan Kaizer, 4182 Beck Avenue, Studio City, CA 91604

“"Proper ethical

behavior precedes

the Torah"

Midrash Leviticus

Rabbah 9:3

ADAMTEVAV’DIN

Annual Donor Report

שמירת האדמה

כל ישראל ערבים זה לזה

שלום בית

אומץ לב

צדק צדק תרדוף

2014

Our visionA safe and healthy environment for all Israelis.

Our mission We use the power of law, science and advocacy to address environmental concerns which impact on the human lived-in environment. Our agenda includes reducing chemical exposure in the everyday environment; incorporating environmental considerations in economic decisions; balancing urban development with environmental and social considerations, and empowering communities to take part in decisions affecting their local environment.

Our assetsOur assets are our people and our 25 years’ experience as national environmental watchdogs. With an expert, in-house team of multi-disciplinary professionals, from senior attorneys to environmental interns, from scientists to urban planners, we have the resources, experience and determination to devise lasting solutions for critical environmental challenges.

דרך ארץ