Details

The Regional Program Energy Security and Climate Change Middle East and North Africa (KAS-REMENA) and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (UN-ESCWA) jointly organized a high-level dialogue on the Acceleration of Circular Economy in the Arab Region. This event took place in Amman, Jordan, from November 22 to 23, 2023.

The prevalent linear economic model in the region has resulted in environmental degradation, resource depletion, and socioeconomic imbalances. In order to address these issues in an inclusive manner and to design a coherent path to a circular model, the event fostered the active participation from representatives of ministries responsible for environmental management and economy, alongside stakeholders from financial institutions, private sector, civil society, and non-governmental organizations.

The dialogue aimed to establish a common understanding of circular economy principles, exploring factors influencing a fast transition, the capacities required, and governance frameworks essential for expediting this shift. Discussions delved into the impediments to a rapid transition, considering investments, regulations, and institutions endorsing policies. Further deliberations exchanged insights on access to finance and effective governance to shift from project-based actions to the holistic transformation of economies with social and nature-positive impacts.

The event concluded with discussions on ways to ensure the sustainability of the dialogue and set a framework for promoting the transition to circularity in the Arab Region. Participants expressed their will and commitment to continuing the dialogue, recognizing its significance in addressing major development challenges.