Ajloun, Sept. 8 (Petra) -- Environmental and academic experts in the northern governorate of Ajloun said directives from His Majesty King Abdullah II to establish a comprehensive national climate finance strategy will bolster support for local environmental projects and safeguard natural resources, turning climate challenges into economic and developmental opportunities.

Speaking to the Jordan News Agency (Petra), local officials and advocates emphasized that directing investments toward green initiatives and climate action is crucial for advancing Jordan’s transition to a green economy.

Firas Al-Hanandeh, President of Ajloun National University, stated that academic institutions play a critical role in supporting environmental efforts through scientific research and sustainability-focused knowledge.

He stressed the importance of strengthening ties between academia and various sectors to raise environmental awareness, foster clean energy innovation, and prepare a workforce equipped to address climate challenges.

Firas Al-Khatatbeh, Director of the Ajloun Tourism Directorate, noted that expanding climate finance will boost nature-based tourism across the governorate's rich landscape. He called for stronger public-private partnerships to advance ecotourism projects that link environmental conservation directly to community development.

Highlighting biodiversity protection, Oday Al-Qudah, Director of the Ajloun Forest Reserve, said dedicated climate funding would directly aid initiatives protecting forests, natural resources, and ecosystems. He added that the reserve serves as a model for sustainable ecotourism and that local community involvement remains crucial to preserving forest areas.

Rabiah Al-Momani, Vice President of the Jordan Environment Society, emphasized that the ultimate success of climate finance projects depends on structured collaboration between government bodies, the private sector, and civil society organizations to ensure local needs are met effectively.

Youth engagement and grassroots efforts were also highlighted as central pillars of the national strategy.

Yousif Al-Smadi, a member of the Green Planet Society for Environmental Protection, stressed empowering youth through volunteer work and environmental awareness programs, while Fayzah Al-Momani of the "Environment Brings Us Together" initiative highlighted the importance of continued field campaigns to protect natural resources and sustain community involvement.

//Petra// AF

08/09/2026 22:55:33