We are deeply honored and excited to share that the Arava Institute for Environmental Studies was recognized last week at the Israeli Annual Conference for International Development & Aid with a Distinguished Organization Award for 2026. This award, presented by the Society for International Development (SID) Israel in partnership with the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, celebrates our long-standing commitment to sustainable international development and cross-border cooperation. It acknowledges the Institute’s work as a bridge between academic excellence, environmental stewardship, and meaningful partnerships that advance shared solutions in water, energy, and environmental resilience.
The award also recognizes the Institute’s recent humanitarian work in Gaza, where our team partnered with local communities to implement sustainable solutions addressing urgent challenges in water, sanitation, and energy access. This effort builds on decades of regional engagement rooted in knowledge sharing, trust-based partnerships, and applied environmental diplomacy. By connecting emergency response with long-term sustainable development, the Arava Institute continues to demonstrate how environmental cooperation can serve as a powerful tool for resilience, stability, and peace.
We are grateful to SID Israel and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, our partners, supporters, alumni, and staff whose dedication makes this work possible. This recognition strengthens our resolve to continue building bridges across borders, training the next generation of environmental leaders, and advancing practical, cooperative solutions for a more sustainable and peaceful future.