Amman: Experts and officials on Sunday highlighted the role of the circular economy in strengthening Jordan's resource security, reducing reliance on imported raw materials, and enhancing economic resilience through sustainable production practices.
According to Jordan News Agency, the remarks came during an "Energy Breakfast" event organized by the Edama Association for Energy, Water and Environment, in partnership with the "Enhancing Sustainability in Industrial Facilities" project implemented by the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), under the theme "The Circular Economy as Part of Jordan's Resource Security Strategy." Held under the patronage of Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply Yarub Qudah and attended by Minister of Environment Ayman Suleiman, the event brought together decision-makers, officials, private-sector representatives, international organizations, and specialists in circular economy, energy, and sustainability.
Participants discussed the contribution of the circular economy to enhancing resource security, addressing risks related to raw materials and supply chains, and developing policies and practical solutions to support a more resilient and sustainable economy.
Qudah stated that the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply has integrated circular and green economy principles into its industrial policy strategy, which guides the transition toward more environmentally friendly and resource-efficient production. He added that the Economic Modernization Vision, particularly through its high-value and green growth pillars, focuses on pioneering projects that can serve as models for other industrial entities. He stressed the importance of extending these principles beyond economic growth to support a broader national security framework through cooperation between the public and private sectors.
Chairperson of Edama's Board of Directors Dureid Mahasneh emphasized that the circular economy should be viewed as a tool for enhancing resource security and economic resilience rather than solely an environmental approach. He stressed the need to integrate public- and private-sector efforts to advance the adoption of circular economy practices.
Sustain MENA CEO Shada Sharif, co-author of the policy paper "Closing the Loop Through the Circular Economy: Key Recommendations for a More Resilient Economy," presented key recommendations, describing the circular economy as a strategic response to Jordan's vulnerability to disruptions affecting essential raw materials. She said adopting circular economy principles would help diversify supply sources, increase local value creation, and enhance competitiveness by reducing dependence on imports.
Participants emphasized the importance of strengthening institutional coordination, securing financing, implementing existing policies, and moving from donor-supported pilot projects toward sustainable and commercially viable business models. They noted that the circular economy represents an economic and development opportunity that can create jobs, improve competitiveness, and enhance resource efficiency, rather than being limited to waste management.
They also highlighted that adopting circular economy practices can improve resource utilization, strengthen value chains, support local manufacturing, and maximize the use of national resources, enhancing Jordan's position in regional and global markets. The speakers stressed the government's role in supporting the energy and mining sectors, maximizing the value of natural resources, and addressing technical challenges related to expanding renewable energy projects through infrastructure development and modernization of the electricity grid in line with the transition toward a green economy.
The "Energy Breakfast" is part of a series of events organized by Edama to promote dialogue between the public and private sectors, bring together decision-makers and stakeholders to discuss national priorities, and build partnerships that support sustainable development and green growth in Jordan.