Core contribution to the Applied Research Institute - Jerusalem (ARIJ)

• Unité de recherche: DDC
• Numéro de projet: 7f-02782.04
• Titre du projet anglais: Core contribution to the Applied Research Institute - Jerusalem (ARIJ)

Mots-clé (Anglais)

Biodiversity, Agricultural Research, Water and Environment, Geographical Information System, Remote Sensing, sustainable Development.

Description succincte (Anglais)

Palestinian Centre of excellence in the fields of agricultural, environmental, water and land use research. The institute promotes sustainable development and the self-reliance of the Palestinian people through greater control over their natural resources. The Institute seeks to improve the local stock of scientific and technical knowledge and to introduce and devise more efficient methods of resource utilisation and conservation, improved practices, and appropriate technology. SDC supported ARIJ projects since 1996, since 2000 SDC provides a core funding contribution to ARIJ. During 2006 the Institute will work on producing a new comprehensive report on the Status of the Environment in Gaza and West Bank following its first report produced in 1996. ARIJ will also work in close cooperation with UNEP to build capacity and provide expertise for a comprehensive environmental survey on the evacuated settlement areas of the Gaza strip.

Objectifs du projet (Anglais)

To promote sustainable development in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and the self-reliance of the Palestinian people through greater control over their natural resources.

Mise en oeuvre et application (Anglais)

In its capacity as a national research institute, it frequently provides current data and research necessary to the formulation of position papers and policy strategies on such issues as land and water resources. Moreover, through its work with donor institutions and regional and international experts, ARIJ promotes an environment conducive to the introduction of new initiatives and ideas and thus serves as a facilitator in the co-ordination of multilateral activities

The Biodiversity and Agriculture Research Unit (BARU): aims to help farmers to improve their socio-economic conditions and to develop the agricultural sector through research on agricultural techniques, technology adaptation, planning and policy. The unit has extended its scope of work to include irrigated agriculture, biodiversity and IPM. A special emphasis is given to find solutions to hinder desertification and to conserve Palestinian natural resources.

 

The Environment and Water Research Unit (WERU): aims to identify existing environmental problems, to locate sources of environmental pollutants, and to measure the extent of their impact, in addition, the unit analyses the current development trends and their impact on the environment; evaluates the feasibility of new technologies to solve environmental problems; creates awareness programs to inform policy makers and the public of environmental problems and means of remedy; and develops computer-based programs for environmental modeling strategies and decision support systems for the Palestinian environment.

 

The Geographic Information System and Remote Sensing Unit: aims to use up to date data and mapping technology in research studies, such as land use analysis and planning.

 

Computer and Information Technology Unit (CITU):  aims to develop virtual and interactive databases. The unit has extended its activities towards developing an office automation system as internal monitoring and evaluation system.

 

Resource Center : which makes scientific data, literature, and periodicals on a wide range of subjects available to the local community. The Institute  also maintains a data analysis center, laboratory, weather station,  and a hydroponics unit. A garden allows the Institute to cultivate  and compare new varieties before introducing them to the local  community