In the spring of 2015, Ramat Hanadiv launched an initiative designed to create a conceptual and practical change in the region: The Partnership for Regional Sustainability. The ‘Partnership’, a connection between Ramat Hanadiv and its five neighboring local councils (Zikhron Ya’akov, Binyamina- Givat Ada, Jisr al- Zarqa, Alona and Hof Ha’carmel) operated until the end of 2019 when its vision of a sustainable region that benefits from ecological, economic and social resilience, was its main objective. Three subjects were selected to be the focus of the activity: the coexistence of nature, agriculture and mankind; sustainable transportation; and a sustainable local economy. With these in mind, goals were set and projects were promoted with the objective of a region that protects nature and its unique landscapes. This was achieved by balanced planning and development together with the promotion of local thrivingbusinesses, cohesivecommunities, up-to-date agriculture, and more. In a multi-year process that included many partners, extraordinary collaboration led the communities to study, take action, assume personal responsibility and create a shared language centered on environment and community. The premise of this was that in- depth processes are achieved through dialogue and partnership. Despite its complexity, we found this combination of approaches effective and essential for leading and implementing the necessary change. This came to fruition because of the ongoing work with the local authorities and the extensive activity with these communities. The aspects that we advanced include: (1) Raising awareness of sustainability and environmental issues that influence all of our lives; (2) Leading innovative work processes
to connect people from different sectors; (3) Building and gathering knowledge as a tool for decision making; (4) Encouraging initiatives that promote sustainability issues. In the five years of its operation, collaborations have been created between the local councils and stakeholders – including officials, residents, farmers, educators, and more. During these years, dozens of initiatives have flourished, regional forums on a variety of subjects were held, and joint projects were promoted. Extensive knowledge was amassed both in the field of content and regarding participatory processes and supportive methodologies. During these years, the lines that separate a locality from its neighbor and between one council and another have blurred somewhat. The understanding that this region is a shared space has increased and both personal and communal concern has grown. In 2018, as part of a national effort to create regional clusters led by the Ministry of the Interior, the Partnership Councils announced their intention to establish a new cluster of authorities that would serve as a continuation of the activity that was conducted by The Partnership for Regional Sustainability. The commitment to advance these subjects and the responsibility for the continued activity was transferred to the cluster. ‘The Partnership’ ended its activity in December 2019 however, the job was not completed. Sustainability is not a momentary or periodic process, but a way of life. While during the past five years, much has been achieved on the regional level, the challenges we currently face are larger than ever and require all of us to continue to promote activity that will ensure a better quality of life for individuals, community and the environment in the area.
The Partnership for Regional Sustainability 02
Naomi Apel, Ramat Hanadiv
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