This trail starts here

Nestled beside the Faculty of Environmental and Civil Engineering buildings are signs directing visitors to a staircase leading to one of the most vibrant and enchanting natural spots on campus. The Ecological Garden was established in 1982 by Professor Ze’ev Naveh to research and evaluate the suitability of plant species from Israel and around the world for landscape restoration in urban and industrial environments. Once a waste site, the area has been transformed over the years with the planting of hundreds of diverse plant species. These restoration efforts, along with additional ecological initiatives, led to its official recognition as a botanical garden in 2011.

Today, the Ecological Garden provides visitors with a unique opportunity to connect with nature. It features pine groves, natural ponds, orchards, and fruit trees, along with habitats for rare plant species that thrive primarily in the lush Carmel region. The garden is interwoven with scenic pathways that are open and accessible to the public. Beyond serving as a serene retreat for the Technion community and visitors, the garden functions as a dynamic research and educational hub. It supports studies across various disciplines, including life sciences, sustainability, water and energy management, botany, conservation, plant cultivation, species propagation, and habitat analysis.

Each year, thousands of visitors from outside the Technion explore the gardens, either privately or as part of organized groups, receiving guided tours and educational sessions from garden staff.

The garden aims to become a leading local and regional hub for sustainability, serving as a center for environmental, scientific, cultural, and social initiatives. Through its activities, it seeks to promote awareness of urban nature and biodiversity while fostering greater appreciation and efforts toward nature conservation in Israel.