Story Map displays facts, figures on hazards of Birzeit town asphalt plant

An academic committee of Birzeit University teaching staff published a Story Map with infographic data highlighting the health and environmental impacts of building the planned asphalt factory Hot Blend in Birzeit town.

The Story Map was created with the support and resources of Birzeit University as part of its engagement in enhancing social responsibility, raising environmental awareness, and stimulating cultural sensitivity among Palestinians on ecological issues.

The infographics at the Story Map reaffirm the importance of environmental citizenship as a collective issue that tackles human health, especially during the coronavirus pandemic. The controversy surrounding the asphalt plant is considered the most significant public-health and environmental crisis for Birzeit town.

The academic committee comprises Maysaa Nemer (Institute of Community and Public Health), Mohamed Kittaneh (Department of Geography), Salem Thawaba (Department of Architectural Engineering), Rashed Al-Sa`ed (Institute of Environmental and Water Studies) and David Saah (University of San Francisco, USA).

Earlier this year, Nimer and Al-Sa’ed prepared a study that highlights concerns over the health and environmental impact of building an asphalt plant in a residential, green area. The study proved that such a plant would cause chemical and physical hazards that negatively impact both the environment and human health.

The full study is available in English as well as an addendum to the study.