‘Region’s cities should shift towards a green economy’

DEAD SEA — Cities in the Middle East should shift towards a green economy that supports and contributes to the growth of the region’s economies while protecting its natural resources, environment and sustainable urban development experts said on Sunday.

Participants in the Eco-Cities of the Mediterranean 2014 Forum highlighted the importance of supporting investments in the environment sector, including solid waste management, green buildings and renewable energy.

More than 450 officials and experts are participating in the two-day forum to tackle environmental challenges facing cities in the Mediterranean and Middle East regions.

Environment Minister Taher Shakhshir noted that the event is being held at a time when cities in the region are facing tremendous environmental challenges which include lack and depletion of natural resources; population growth; expansion in industry, transport and tourism; and urban sprawl at the expense of agricultural land.

Speaking at the forum’s opening ceremony, Shakhshir highlighted that cities in the Middle East are also witnessing increasing air pollution levels, a surging demand for water and energy and a growing problem with the management of solid and liquid waste.

“Scientific and practical solutions are necessary to address these challenges... Such solutions include drafting policies and regulations that prioritise the environment,” he said.

The minister added that the forum is an opportunity to arrive at solutions for the region’s environmental problems, and this can be achieved by shifting to a green economy, applying urban planning and creating work opportunities in a healthy environment.

Organised in cooperation with the ministries of environment and municipal affairs, the Greater Amman Municipality, UNIDO and UNEP, the forum aims at promoting economic growth and employment, particularly for young people.

The event, sponsored by the USAID Jordan Competitiveness Programme, also seeks to encourage the adoption of environment-friendly practices, the introduction of new technologies, in addition to providing a platform for business, government and civil society leaders to discuss best practices and exchange ideas, according to organisers.

The first Eco-Cities of the Mediterranean Forum was held in October 2008 as an Environment Ministry initiative to bring together private and public sector representatives, as well as NGOs and intergovernmental organisations, to raise awareness, share experience and information on best practices, and identify opportunities for investment and technology transfer in the environment sector.