History was made today when the Knesset’s legislative committee approved Israel’s first government bill addressing the climate crisis to begin its parliamentary journey. With the current government expected to be dissolved within weeks, initial approval means that the next government must continue to hear the bill.
The government’s bill is based on Adam Teva V’Din’s draft of a basic climate law. Amit Bracha, Adam Teva V’Din’s executive director, commented: “We are pleased that the Knesset has approved the first stage of the legislative process for this most important bill. There are both opportunities and risks, as a new government may insert changes in GHG reduction and other targets. Today’s decision will minimize delays in advancing a Climate Law later this year, whatever the makeup of the incoming government.”
The bill as submitted provides a detailed framework for the State of Israel to ready for the climate crisis. The Prime Minister’s Office will coordinate government ministries’ preparation of Climate Change Preparedness Plans and essential budgetary allocations.
Other provisions include targets for reducing GHG emissions by 27% by 2030, compared to 2015 as base year. It also mandates establishing a climate risk assessment process for all major development and infrastructure plans, and lays down processes for ensuring transparency in climate-related decision-making.
Note: The 36th Government was dissolved on June 26, 2022, and elections scheduled for November 1, 2022.
