This trail starts here

In 2015, the office of agronomist Hanoch Burger conducted a comprehensive tree survey to support the preservation and development of green spaces on campus. Commissioned by the Technion Board of Trustees, the survey was part of the planning process for the Technion’s 2045 physical master plan. The findings revealed that most of the 1,300 dunams of Technion grounds consist of natural or protected areas. These areas contain tens of thousands of trees, which have been mapped and classified by a team of agronomists. The researchers identified and cataloged various tree species, tagging approximately 900 for ongoing study and monitoring. This effort was carried out with a forward-looking approach, aiming to balance campus development with the preservation of natural environments. The strong focus on environmental preservation aligns with research demonstrating that nature, including trees, forests, and vegetation, has calming and therapeutic effects. This global body of research has contributed to the emergence of a new field known as ecotherapy.

Following the fire disasters in the Carmel and Haifa, the Technion has adopted a policy of planting natural forest trees—such as elm, oak, and carob—while reserving ornamental and shade trees for developed areas. This is how the unique master plan is being formed and shaped, and ultimately the Technion will be recognized as an environment that combines construction complexes with modern urban infrastructure along with protected natural areas and vegetation – a forest city.