Prevention of Water Pollution - Evaporation and Storage Ponds, Regulations, 1997​ (5757- 1997).

These Regulations, made under the authority of the Water Law and the Abatement of Nuisances Law, are aimed at preventing water pollution from evaporation and collection (storage) ponds and at placing restricting on their use. They are meant to prevent leaks from improperly sealed evaporation ponds used for industrial brines and effluents and from collection ponds serving for the storage of effluents and brines.
The Regulations relate to evaporation and collection ponds at all stages, from planning and establishment to closure and cessation of operations. They prohibit the construction of evaporation ponds or collection ponds in all cases in which an economically viable and environmentally sound alternative is available for industrial effluent treatment. At the same time, they set conditions and measures to ensure that the construction and operation of such ponds will not cause water pollution, air pollution or odor pollution. Construction or operation of a pond is contingent on the fulfilment of technical instructions on different aspects of establishment, operation and maintenance including dual layering by sealing material, monitoring equipment and procedures, cleanup and disposal of sediments, etc. Specific measures are required in case of leakage or risk of leakage, including reporting requirements and site treatment.​