Rivals Set Their Differences Aside, for the Sake of Nature

Longtime rival countries Jordan and Israel have accepted to work hand in hand to conserve and protect the Jordan River, their shared waterway, in a common effort to curb the impact of changing climate.

“Cleaning up the pollutants and hazards, restoring water flow, and strengthening the natural ecosystems will help us prepare and adapt to the climate crisis,” states Tamar Zandberg, Environmental Protection Minister of Israel.

Struck at the COP27 in Egypt, the agreement includes the promise to reduce river pollution by building wastewater treatment facilities and upgrading sewer systems, thus preventing riverside cities from dumping raw sewage in the river. Moreover, the two neighboring countries will promote sustainable agriculture, control runoff from farm fields, and reduce the use of pesticides.