Ariel Sharon Park

Ariel Sharon Park is one of the most ambitious environmental rehabilitation projects in the world. Once a 60-meter-high mound of waste, the site - “Hiriya” - now serves as the park’s center. Ariel Sharon Park, bigger than Central Park, is open to the public and is one of the best national parks in Israel.

The nature trails, pond, zoo, and the western section, Menachem Begin Park, are open, offering one of the best picnic spots in Israel. Also, the Shalem Farm, the Mikve Israel Agricultural School, and a recycling center offering tours are available for visitors.

Tour the park and witness successful landfill rehabilitation. One facility uses advanced biological systems to reduce the weight of municipal waste by over 90%. It does this by producing bio-gas to generate electricity and recover valuable materials, like glass and metal. Additionally, methane gas is recovered from the mound, providing a significant source of funding for the park’s development. The gas is sold to a nearby textile factory, helping support the project through contributions and government matching funds.

The park features recycling initiatives, including a recycling plant for tires, another for building materials, and another that turns plant prunings into ground cover. This solution encourages Israelis to use sustainable ground cover instead of water-guzzling grass.

The carefully tended garden near the visitor center is no ordinary flower bed. Aquatic beauties like water lilies and papyrus sprout from a very special mini-wetland: a self-sustaining system that treats sewage with the help of bacteria flourishing on the roots of the plants. The micro-organisms break down toxins in water siphoned off from the daily influx of municipal waste and from the Hiriya mound. This process purifies the water, which they then use for irrigation.

At the visitor center, they recycle everything: Furniture, cans and bottles, and a gigantic ceiling fixture - even the employees’ kitchen.  At lectures and workshops, visitors can learn from experts how to change behavior patterns to help protect and rejuvenate the environment. There are also several opportunities for ecological and environmental volunteering in Israel.

The Future of Ariel Sharon Park

The mega 2,000-acre park will be a green lung in the center of Israel’s densely populated Coastal Plain serving not only the residents of Tel Aviv but also the many neighboring cities. A proposed 50,000-seat amphitheater will transform the park into a venue for international-scale concerts. In addition, the stunning views from the top of the mound, along with the creation of an ‘inner lung’ featuring special plants and a serene lake, will elevate the site into more than just a leisure destination, but an ecological masterpiece. Make sure to check out the Ariel Sharon Park website for more details.

Discover Israeli Natural Wonders and More With Tourist Israel

Ariel Sharon Park is a remarkable example of environmental innovation, transforming a former landfill into a stunning, sustainable space that blends nature with technology. Featuring educational tours, beautiful landscapes, and impressive recycling initiatives, the park offers something for travelers.

If you’re visiting Israel, we recommend joining one of our epic Tel Aviv Tours, such as our Best of Tel Aviv, Jaffa & Carmel Market Day Tour, to immerse yourself in all that Tel Aviv has to offer. For a more comprehensive adventure across Israel, our Israel Package Tours are the best option, showcasing the country’s natural wonders, history, and culture. Plus, we take care of all the logistical details, including seamless transfers, expert guides, exciting itineraries, and beautiful hotels. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Israel’s environmental gems and so much more!

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