Environmental Protection Ministry to fund 26 new eco-friendly structures nationwide

Billie Frenkel
Published: 09.14.12,

he Environmental Protection Ministry has approved a NIS 10 million (about $2.5 million) grant for 26 new buildings that are part of 19 green building projects, Ynet has learned.

The grant, provided via a special government fund, was allocated as part of the national plan to reduce greenhouse gasses.

The ministry chose projects in 10 municipalities: The Upper Galilee Regional Council, Kiryat Biyalik, Tel Aviv, Givataym, Rishon Lezion, Modiin, Yavneh, Ashdod, Eilat and the Ayalot Regional Council.

Additionally, the ministry will also allocate grants to three private entrepreneurs, who will head green building projects in six cities.

The ministry also plans to fund a study that would further elaborate on the financial feasibility and environmental benefits of eco-friendly building.

Green building, especially one practiced in public buildings like schools, can save up to 40% of water consumption and 25% of power consumption. In private building, eco-friendly buildings can save as much as 30% of power consumption and 10% of water consumption.

“This kind of project, as well as future construction that follows the green building doctrine, will encourage municipalities to take it up, for our children’s sake,” Environmental Protection Minister Gilad Erdan said.

http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4281228,00.html