A journey into the rift
The Great Syrian-African Rift, a unique geological phenomenon, has shaped continents and served as a vital natural space with expansive bodies of water, nomadic tribes, and a primary migration route for birds and animals. In the area of the Dead Sea rift in Israel, this region has also become a backdrop marked by environmental history, recreational exploitation of natural and water resources, and unique settlements with low socio-economic status.
This project presents a new perspective on the area, envisioning it as a biosphere space that fosters a closer connection between people and nature. The aim is to work towards the restoration of natural resources and the enhancement of birding opportunities. Specifically, the project proposes a modern nomadic trail for travelers grounded in a sustainable tourism system.
The case study focuses on the Southern Arava, a desert region characterized by extreme temperature fluctuations and occasional flooding. Planning efforts near Kibbutz Lotan center on restoring the Grofit stream, creating a retention basin, and establishing a birding site. Additionally, changes in the agricultural system will be made to benefit both the ecological system and the local community, ultimately creating a sustainable tourism hosting site.
This initiative aims to position this area within the rift as a pioneering biosphere space, contributing to the broader rift biosphere system in the future.
