Amman, Sunday, 8 December 2024. During the IGNITE Amman Conference, the European Union introduced  “Green Forward”, an initiative that will be implemented through three projects, respectively led by Expertise France, SPARK, and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). 

As environmental pressures increase, the Green Forward initiative emphasizes the urgency of transitioning to a circular economy model—a shift that the World Bank estimates could generate up to $4.5 trillion in economic benefits by 2030. Recognizing this potential, the initiative will provide a multi-level approach to empower governments, businesses, and local communities in the southern Mediterranean region to adopt sustainable practices that prioritise both economic and environmental resilience.

Initiative Pillars:

The Green Forward initiative will be implemented over the next three years, delivering a holistic approach that targets key sectors and stakeholders across the Southern Neighbourhood. The initiative’s comprehensive strategy focuses on strengthening national policies, supporting enterprise development, and encouraging community-based sustainability, thereby ensuring that all levels of society are equipped to contribute to a greener, more resilient economy.

Macro-Level Focus – National Policy and Framework Development

Led by Expertise France, Green Forward Policy will begin by strengthening national policies and frameworks essential for green transitions. By supporting governments across the region in adopting comprehensive climate policies, the initiative aims to promote economic stability while driving GDP growth—a benefit projected by the IMF for countries committed to sustainable development. 

Through Green Forward, we are focused on advancing policy reforms that create pathways for green investment and sustainable business opportunities. By sharing best practices from across the Mediterranean and aligning with the EU Green Deal’s vision, we’re supporting countries in the Southern Neighbourhood as they build resilient economies for a sustainable future.  – Ms. Lilly FORMALEONI, Expertise France Country Director for Lebanon and Jordan.

Meso-Level Focus – Enabling Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

SPARK will support the business ecosystem by working with business support organisations (BSOs) to create an environment that is enabling for SMEs and entrepreneurs. Through these efforts, Green Forward BSOs seek to empower businesses to incorporate green initiatives, fostering sustainable growth and innovation within the SME sector.

Micro-Level Focus – Local Enterprise Support and Success Stories

In collaboration with industry stakeholders, UNIDO-led Green Forward Industry will showcase how SMEs in the region can adopt resource-efficient and circular business models, enabling them to access finance and better compete in a green economy. Additionally, UNIDO will work to disseminate knowledge at educational, vocational training, and policy levels, embedding sustainable practices for a resilient future.

The new Green Forward initiative was announced during a panel discussion on the green and circular economy involving key figures such as Ingrid Schwaiger, Deputy Head of Unit, DG NEAR B2; Lilly Formaleoni, Country Director for Jordan and Lebanon, Expertise France; Sulafa Mdanat, UNIDO Country Representative for Jordan; and Mourad Hentati, Regional Director at SPARK.

Ingrid Schwaiger commented:

With support from the European Union, Green Forward aligns with the EU’s Green Deal objectives, targeting a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. The initiative will leverage this vision to drive sustainable development projects within the Southern Neighbourhood, encouraging economic growth alongside meaningful environmental progress.

By providing strategic support across policy, enterprise development, and community action, Green Forward is poised to transform the green economy landscape in the southern Mediterranean. This initiative marks a critical step towards a coordinated, region-wide response to today’s environmental challenges, empowering stakeholders at all levels to contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.