Amman, Sep. 18 (Petra) -- The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in partnership with the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply, Ministry of Environment and the Royal Scientific Society (RSS) launched the EU-funded Green Forward Industry (GFI) project to help Jordan’s engineering sector adopt circular economy practices that can boost competitiveness, create green jobs, and strengthen the resilience of businesses. Jihad Alsawair, Advisor to the Minister of Environment on Technical and International Affairs, highlighted that this project is focusing on the Engineering sector, which is a crucial fast-growing sector, adding "Introducing the circular economy principles through resource efficiency, innovation in design, and remanufacturing will enhance Jordan’s positioning in regional and global markets." "Jordan’s engineering sector contributes 5% to GDP and 4.1% to manufacturing exports. It is the country’s second-fastest growing industrial sector, recording a growth rate of 19.2% in 2023. By adopting circular business models, the sector can improve material efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and strengthen local supply chains" said Sulafa Mdanat, UNIDO Representative in Jordan.

Mdanat noted that building on progress achieved under the EU-funded SwitchMed programme, the project will until 2028, demonstrate practical circular business models and strengthen the capacity of SMEs to access green finance.

"This initiative is a testament to UNIDO’s strategic engagement in the region and our support for Jordan’s green transition," and "by applying proven approaches and targeted technical assistance, we are helping SMEs unlock export potential, improve resource use, and strengthen their role in global value chains," she further added.

For his part, European Union Ambassador to Jordan, Pierre-Christophe Chatzisavas, emphasized that: "Embracing circular economy principles isn't just a path to sustainability but a gateway to innovation, resilience, and prosperity. Through the Green Forward Industry project, the EU stands by Jordan's engineering sector, driving a green transition that reduces waste and dependencies while fostering inclusive growth." Rafat Assi, Vice President of the RSS, said that the event marked the start of a sectoral mapping exercise, led by RSS, to identify areas in the engineering value chain with the highest potential for circularity, noting the findings will guide the selection of pilot projects to be launched in early 2026, showcasing innovative business models that reduce waste, water, and energy use while opening new business opportunities.

Assi added "This project supports Jordan’s Economic Modernization Vision (EMV), which emphasizes advancing green growth and enhancing the competitiveness of the industrial sector. It will ultimately strengthen the national economy and create sustainable green jobs." The Green Forward Industry project is part of the Green Forward Initiative, a regional EU-funded programme operating in eight Southern Mediterranean countries. Implemented by UNIDO at the SME level, it complements policy reforms led by Expertise France and business support initiatives coordinated by SPARK.

//Petra// WH