Amman, Aug. 16 (Petra) -- The Environment Protection Fund has approved financing for a package of environmental and development projects covering sustainable agriculture, nature reserve rehabilitation, water harvesting, recycling and green spaces, as part of efforts to expand investment in environmental sustainability and community development.
The approvals were issued by the Fund's Board of Directors during a meeting at the Ministry of Environment chaired by Minister Ayman Suleiman.
The new funding package targets projects designed to empower youth and women in rural communities, strengthen food security, support environmentally sustainable production, conserve ecosystems, expand water harvesting and increase green spaces.
Several community organizations will receive support under the program. Projects include the Petra Springs Environmental Society's "Petra Biscuit House," a water harvesting and home garden initiative by Basmat Al-Khair Women's Cooperative Society, the "Map and Fabric" project by Himmet Nisaa Al-Balqa Charity Society, and a Jordan Environment Society initiative aimed at strengthening rural community participation in environmental justice.
Funding was also approved for Ayadi Al-Badia Agricultural Cooperative Society to develop a project for drying fruit and vegetables using renewable energy.
The Fund approved financing for the rehabilitation and development of several protected areas and natural sites, including Yarmouk Nature Reserve, Mujib Biosphere Reserve, Azraq Wetland Reserve, Dana Biosphere Reserve and Birkat Al-Ara'is.
The projects are designed to strengthen biodiversity protection, improve the management of natural resources and enhance the long-term sustainability of the sites.
The board also backed the rehabilitation and operation of the Mujib agricultural project, with plans to develop it into a national model for modern farming.
An applied agricultural academy specializing in non-traditional farming will be established as part of the project to provide young people with practical training in innovative, environmentally friendly agricultural techniques and improve their access to employment opportunities.
The funding package includes two new environmental parks, one at the Pilgrims City, or Al-Waha, in Ma'an Governorate and another at Aqaba University College, aimed at expanding green spaces and promoting environmental awareness within local communities.
The Fund also approved a circular-economy project to manufacture outdoor benches and waste containers from recycled plastic for use in public parks and recreational areas.
The initiative is intended to increase the reuse of plastic waste, support recycling-based industries and innovation, and promote more efficient use of resources.
The Ministry of Environment said the projects are part of the Fund's approach to financing initiatives that combine measurable environmental benefits with sustainable development, while supporting local communities, creating opportunities for youth and women, protecting natural resources and advancing Jordan's green economy.
The ministry said applications for the Environment Protection Fund's 2027 project cycle are expected to open during the fourth quarter of 2026. Application requirements, eligibility criteria and funding mechanisms will be announced at a later date.
//Petra// RZ
