Amman named Capital of Arab Environment

AMMAN — The Council of Arab Ministers Responsible for Environmental Affairs on Thursday named Amman the Capital of Arab Environment during its 37th session in Cairo. The council approved the judging panel's decision and awarded Amman the Capital of Arab Environment Shield, while Salalah in Oman and AlUla in Saudi Arabia received certificates of appreciation for their environmental initiatives, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. The selection followed an evaluation based on 13 environmental and urban criteria covering climate change, local transport, green spaces, land use and biodiversity. The assessment also covered air and acoustic quality, waste management, wastewater treatment, eco-innovation, green jobs, energy efficiency and the role of communities and non-governmental organisations. Minister of Environment Ayman Suleiman said that the designation reflects regional recognition of Jordan's efforts in environmental protection. He said that the action plan to follow the designation will focus on improving solid waste management and recycling, expanding green spaces, improving air quality and promoting sustainable transport through electric and hybrid vehicles. The plan will also include expanding the use of solar energy, adopting smart solutions and strengthening community engagement, Suleiman added. He stressed the need to strengthen cooperation between the Ministry of Environment, the Greater Amman Municipality (GAM), national institutions, the private sector and civil society to expand environmental projects, improve resource efficiency and enhance Amman's urban environment. Suleiman said Jordan would also seek to benefit from successful environmental practices in other Arab cities. The designation is in line with the Economic Modernisation Vision, which identifies sustainability and quality of life among the priorities of national development, including through green growth, efficient resource use, improved waste management and sustainable urban development. The Ministry of Environment, in cooperation with GAM and other relevant stakeholders, will prepare an integrated action plan to translate the designation into practical projects aimed at strengthening Amman's position as a sustainable and climate-resilient city.