Nesher Cement Plant Emissions Rise Despite Environmental Ministry Claims
Despite the Ministry of Environmental Protection's announcement of a general decrease in air pollution, data from the annual "Mefals" (Environmental Emissions Registry) report for 2025 reveals a concerning rise in pollution levels at specific industrial sites, including the Nesher cement plant in Ramla. The plant, owned by entities controlled by oligarch Len Blavatnik, is ranked second in pollution costs, with its total environmental damage estimated at nearly 1.4 billion shekels in 2025, a 6% increase from the previous year. This figure includes approximately 760 million shekels attributed to air pollution and the remainder to greenhouse gas emissions.
The report highlights significant increases in specific pollutants emitted by Nesher, including a 18% rise in particulate matter, a 16.8% increase in fine particulate matter, an 8.5% rise in volatile organic compounds, a 6.2% increase in nitrogen oxides, and a sharp 52.3% surge in mercury emissions. The plant has a history of environmental violations and malfunctions, with 11 pollution-related incidents reported in the last month alone. In 2025, Nesher was responsible for nearly half of all reported mercury emissions from Israeli industry.
Experts suggest the rise in pollution, particularly particulate matter, may be linked to the plant's increased use of RDF (Refuse-Derived Fuel), a waste-based energy source, instead of petcoke. While promoted as an environmental solution, RDF can generate more airborne particles during combustion and handling. Residents and environmental advocates criticize the Ministry of Environmental Protection, led by Minister Idit Silman, for a perceived lax regulatory approach, noting a lack of progress in enforcing emission standards and addressing the plant's ongoing issues, including delays in installing required heavy metal monitoring equipment.
Professor Adi Wolfson, a sustainability expert, points to the shift to RDF as a likely cause for the increased particle emissions, noting that this fuel can produce more ash and mineral content. He also highlights that non-point source emissions from RDF handling, such as crushing and transport, contribute to street-level pollution. Professor Hagai Levin, an epidemiologist, has previously warned about the potential health risks of mercury exposure, including hormonal disruptions and developmental issues in children. The Ministry of Environmental Protection and Nesher have not yet responded to requests for comment.
