1. The eco-industries market, including the provision of clean technologies, waste management, water management, renewable energy, green building and others.
2. The information technologies market with an emphasis on energy efficiency and resource savings.
3. The provision of technological solutions to climate change adaptation.

"The search for environmental solutions to such problems as water scarcity and contamination, air pollution, global warming, growing quantities of hazardous and municipal waste can create new economic opportunities and open new markets for environmental products and services," said Minister Erdan in his address. He then went on to illustrate Israel's ability to capitalize on its technological innovations as a major level for economic growth.

In relating to the eco-industries market, Minister Erdan said: "This market is growing at a rapid pace and provides for many green jobs. Israel is already recognized as a leader in key pillars of the eco-industry market, namely in water management and renewable energy. Israel has already made major inroads in the field of solar energy, both on the local level through the development of rooftop solar collectors and photo-voltaic systems and on a national level through the proposed construction of solar power plants in Israel?s Negev desert."

With regard to the information technology market (IT), he said: "The environmental information technology market presents opportunities in several areas relating to energy and resource efficiency. One example is IT for smart grid technologies for electricity transmission and distribution, as well as new business models such as the one proposed by Better Place."

When referring to technologies for adaptation to climate change, he said: "Based on our accumulated experience with limited water resources, intense solar radiation and high temperatures, Israel can well contribute technological solutions for climate adaptation. Today we are ready to serve as a regional laboratory and center of excellence to prepare for and adapt to changing climatic conditions."

Environmental Protection Minister Erdan concluded with the following observations: "We, at the Ministry of Environmental Protection, are convinced that economic progress and environmental protection are closely linked. We are certain that the development and implementation of environmental technologies is a "win-win" situation: it will catalyze the development of an industry with significant export potential, it will ensure a cleaner environment in Israel and quality of life to its residents, and it will promote regional and international cooperation for the improvement of the environment.

In order to enhance processes that lead to the creation of new markets and a greener economy, we are using a basket of policy tools: setting measurable targets in such areas as renewable energy, energy conservation and recycling, enacting and enforcing laws, promoting green procurement by government, and promoting public awareness, environmental education and a sustainable lifestyle.

Our target of 20% reduction in emissions from the business as usual scenario by 2020 was presented by our President in Copenhagen and is currently in the process of a government decision. This 20% by 2020 target would require a long list of drastic steps in many areas, including electricity generation.

It is my hope and my intention to promote a green revolution in the Israeli economy, through partnership between the private sector and government. We must provide industry with the necessary incentives to develop new technologies that will help Israel take a leading role in meeting the environmental challenges ahead. Today, investments in technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, minimize and recycle waste, treat effluents, manage water wisely are no longer options. They are necessities, both strategically and economically. And what's especially important is that the benefits are sure to outweigh the costs in the form of a healthier environment, a better quality of life, sustainable economic growth and employment based on a green economy."