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Amid the decision to construct Highway 4431, which connects Highway 443 to Modi’in Illit through one of the last remaining biologically rich habitats, Daniel Baram, the CEO of our organization, addressed the West Bank Planning Committee to highlight the severe dangers posed by this project. Below is the full speech:
Introduction: "Hello, my name is Daniel Baram, and I am the CEO of “Safe Wildlife Crossings”. Today, I represent dozens of concerned citizens. We stand firmly by the objections we have submitted and wish to elaborate further."
Key Points of the Objection:
Mismanagement of Resources and Environmental Disregard:
The project perpetuates a pattern of resource waste under the guise of "development" and "security."
It disregards the irreplaceable ecological services provided by the rare wildlife and habitats in the area.
Erosion of Public Trust:
This plan, spearheaded by a governmental authority trusted by Israeli citizens, prioritizes narrow political interests without considering alternatives that balance development and conservation.
International Commitments Ignored:
The plan contradicts Israel's commitments to biodiversity protection under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the Aichi Targets, which aim to prevent habitat loss and fragmentation.
Scientific Findings on Habitat Fragmentation:
Numerous studies show that habitat fragmentation and the loss of ecological corridors significantly threaten biodiversity and ecosystem functionality.
Wildlife populations isolated by infrastructures are at a high risk of extinction due to reduced genetic diversity and limited reproduction opportunities (Haddad et al., 2015; Mulongoy and Bennett, 2006).
Biodiversity Loss Amid a Global Crisis:
Biodiversity loss in this era of ecological crisis should act as a warning sign to all stakeholders. Reports consistently highlight habitat fragmentation and open space loss as the primary threats to Israel's ecosystems.
According to the 2023 OECD Report, 60% of mammal species in Israel are endangered—the highest rate among OECD countries.
Impact of Roadkills and Poor Planning:
An estimated 2,000 wildlife roadkills are reported annually, though researchers believe the true number is ten times higher.
Planned wildlife crossings in the project are inadequate, leaving species like gazelles and hyenas at risk of extinction.
Health Risks:
Habitat destruction brings humans into closer contact with wildlife, increasing the risk of zoonotic diseases. The CDC estimates that over 75% of emerging infectious diseases originate from animals.
Inadequate Infrastructure for Wildlife Crossings:
The planned wildlife crossings are poorly designed and fail to meet ecological connectivity standards. For example:
The Modi’in Stream crossing is only 7.7 meters high, too low for effective use.
The southern Serpentine crossing is just 6.6 meters high and located in a narrow area near industrial zones, rendering it unusable.
Call for Alternative Solutions:
Viable alternatives exist, such as expanding Road 446, connecting nearby villages, and upgrading existing intersections. These solutions meet transportation needs without causing irreversible environmental harm.
The area could instead be preserved as a national park, safeguarding Israel’s biodiversity and preventing the extinction of rare species.
Conclusion:Baram called on the committee to fulfill its duty to protect public health, wildlife, and Israel’s natural heritage. She urged them to reject Highway 4431 and prioritize sustainable alternatives.
"We are cutting the branch we sit on. This highway exemplifies the reckless destruction of the very resources that sustain us. Let us act responsibly to preserve Israel’s unique natural treasures amid this ecological and climate crisis."
This compelling speech highlights the critical need for responsible planning that balances development and environmental stewardship.
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