Biodiversity conservation and sustainable use

Israel’s biodiversity, while exceptionally rich, is subject to serious pressures from a range of sources. Although a relatively large share of the total area is protected, natural reserves and parks do not adequately represent the country’s diversity of habitats. Relatively large shares of fauna and flora species are threatened. This chapter reviews Israel’s biodiversity policy and institutional framework, along with the priorities, principles and actions outlined in the National Biodiversity Strategy. It discusses the policy mix for biodiversity conservation and sustainable use, including the increasing, albeit still limited, use of economic instruments. The degree of biodiversity mainstreaming into other sectors such as agriculture, fishery and forestry is also addressed.