GCF approves $45 million grant for landscape management project

AMMAN — The Green Climate Fund (GCF) Board approved a $45 million grant on Wednesday for the Integrated Landscape Management Initiative in Jordan, with additional local contributions from the Ministry of Environment and project partners.

Minister of Environment Muawieh Radaideh said that the project will support the Jordanian government's efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change. 

Radaideh said that the initiative is a significant step in preserving nature through integrated ecosystem management.

The project aims to provide sustainable solutions for water resources and enhance farmers' resilience to climate change challenges, he added.

The initiative will be implemented by the United Nations Environment Programme as the accredited international entity, in collaboration with the International Union for Conservation of Nature West Asia office, with the Ministry of Environment leading as the national accredited entity. 

The project's goal is to enhance the resilience of Jordan's ecosystems and vulnerable communities in the Jordan Valley through implementing climate change adaptation plans in terrestrial and marine areas, exploring small-scale sustainable energy opportunities, and diversifying local activities and green economy options.

Supported by the GCF, the project focuses on building a climate-responsive natural resource base, using innovative technologies, and enhancing socioeconomic adaptive capacity. 

Jordan, one of the most water-scarce countries, faces significant challenges due to its natural conditions and limited agricultural land.

 The initiative aims to increase the resilience of Jordanian ecosystems and provide support to communities in need, particularly in the Jordan Valley, Zarqa River Basin, and Aqaba Gulf.