Jerusalem, 8 January, 2026 (TPS-IL) — Israel’s Ministry of Environmental Protection has approved financial support and professional guidance totaling approximately 16.7 million Shekels ($5.2 million) to strengthen their preparedness for climate change for 11 Arab local authorities, including Rahat, Umm el-Fahm, Raineh, Arabeh, and Kasifa,.
This call will help authorities plan and plant trees and promote shading solutions as part of their preparation for the warming of urban spaces. Trees are essential green infrastructure that reduces heat loads, contributes to public health and improved quality of life, and stimulates local economic activity.
The funds will also be used for adding green roofs combined with photovoltaic panels.
“Climate change brings with it direct challenges to the daily lives of all residents of the State of Israel, extreme events such as floods and extreme heat waves, which are expected to worsen in the coming decades,” said the Ministry. “The support is intended to help authorities prepare for heat waves, deal with the urban heat island phenomenon, and reduce emissions. All of this will be done through shading and cooling of public spaces, promoting renewable energy infrastructure in buildings, establishing drainage infrastructure, and strengthening community resilience.”