But at a visceral level, sadness is evoked by the sight of bulldozers paving over the richest soil of the Israeli heartland, some of the last swatches of a land of milk and honey that inspired prophets and pilgrims for three millenia. No one knows how many malls, suburbs and super-center developments will ultimately sprawl in its wake. The work has only just begun. It is not too late for decision-makers to acknowledge a mistake and lead Israel on a different and more sustainable track. Yes, transportation systems impose significant environmental costs which are increasingly recognized in transport policy making.
Environmentalists play an important role as society s watchdogs.
We need to develop efficient, yet environmentally benign transportation systems. Roads are evil if they are considered the solution. Road 6 is part of the solution, augmented by rail, where needed, and other policy measures where appropriate. In opposing Road 6 the environmentalists seem to be wrong. Its environmental costs are small compared to its total benefits.