Landscape Development

A large entrance plaza lies at the front of the PSES Building, open to the Science Promenade, some 1,400 sq m in size. This is where the three ponds of the green basin are located, alongside indigenous fruit-tree garden, planted on terraces by the entry path. The trees, including olive, carob, fig and almond, require small amounts of water, and shade pleasant seating areas.

The terraces constitute a seepage area, which absorbs rainwater (runoff) from the hardened paths and uses it to water the trees. When additional watering is needed. reclaimed water from the green basin is used. Next to the terraces, which are coated by recycled woodchip, is a bench constructed from recycled wood. Refurbished and recycled garden furniture are scattered throughout the garden area. 

Additional indigenous plants, all water efficient and well integrated into the bedrock gradient, were planted at the edges of the sloping garden. These are watered by reclaimed green basin water. The soil of all vegetation areas is improved by the produce of the PSES Building composter, into which organic waste is collected .

Explanatory signs by the different elements in the plaza provide information about the water recycling processes, recycled material used and green building principles.