Amman, July 12 (Petra) — 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.

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 said 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 said 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.

//Petra// AJ