16. DECOUPLING ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS FROM THE OVERALL ASPECTS OF POLITICAL DISPUTES: IS IT POSSIBLE? THE CASE OF THE PM2.5 PROJECT

摘要

More and more evidence is being accumulated regarding the health hazards from massive exposure to particulate matter, especially fine particles with a very small diameter. Transboundary effects of air pollution, especially particulate matter resulting from anthropogenic activities may result in negative impacts on the fragile stability existing between Israel and its neighbors. The Arava Institute for Environmental Studies (AIES) initiated a comprehensive study of PM2.5 to be conducted jointly between AIES (Israel), The Jordan Society for Sustainable Development (Jordan), and Al-Quds University (Palestinian Authority [PA]). It is believed that the cooperation during the study and the direct and open flow of information will bring about a clear, objective picture of the PM2.5 situation in the area and will lead to the establishment and enforcement of appropriate emission standards wherever required in the region. It is hoped that the study will also play its role in contributing to lessening of the ongoing tension. This paper analyzes the role that the environment has in bilateral agreements and the interplay between bilateral relations and environmental problem solving. Bilateral agreements are most often used to resolve a conflict, but the soft approach of compliance relies on good relations between States. Joint environmental projects offer a tool to move countries that do not have good relations towards common ground, which may lead to effective bilateral agreements.