The Colorado-Israel Connection
June 15, 2011
Alternative Energy, Business & Management
Denver Post — Jacob Dayan is nearing the end of his term as consul general of Israel to the Southwest United States. As such, he has taken a moment to reflect upon the commonalities and cooperation between Israel and Colorado. This cooperation has led to important developments — both scientific and economic — in energy, clean-tech, water and solar technology.
It was during a July 2010 visit to Israel’s Negev Desert by a Colorado economic development delegation that former Governor Bill Ritter saw the importance of a partnership between the two desert states. Ritter could see how the technology that Israel was using to make the desert bloom could also be beneficial to Colorado.
Both areas receive less than two percent water and have pioneered technologies to reduce water consumption. Israel recycles more water than any other country in the world, a full 75 percent.
Colorado State University and Ben-Gurion University have recently signed an agreement of collaboration on water conservation and other technologies, including bio-tech and solar energy.
Both Israel and Colorado have done relatively well during the current economic crisis. Dayan is proud of the number of Colorado-based companies that export millions in manufactured goods to Israel each year.
Several memos of understanding have recently been signed between Israel and Colorado.
In March, Colorado’s Senate passed a joint resolution proclaiming “continued support by the Colorado General Assembly for a strong relationship between the United States and Israel.”
Dayan has extended an invitation for newly elected Governor John Hickenlooper to visit Israel and continue this friendship.
Read the full article in the Denver Post >>
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