IUCN WESCANA supports Jordan Environment Society to establish a National Environment Center in Jordan

23 August 2006

The project master plan

After signing a Memorandum of Understanding to establish an eco-center, which would connect further people with nature and culture, IUCN WESCANA and the Jordan Environment Society (JES) pursued efforts to attract funding that would materialize the agreement.

On August 17, IUCN WESCANA and its member JES presented the master plan of a Jordanian National Environment Center project to a wide spectrum of stakeholders, Environmental NGOs, donors, government officials and private sector, during a workshop entitled "Connecting with Nature: The Jordanian Experience" held at the Regional Office’s premises.

Known as"Khirbet Al Mantara,” the land on which the project will be constructed is located on 100 Donums of Al Urdun Street in Amman, in an arid area. But it has a potential of becoming a green spot. The center will include an interactive museum, a center for healthy living, camping areas, potential NGO offices, a recycling center, botanical gardens and agricultural terraces.

This project will adopt green agriculture concepts; an integrated approach to energy and water harvesting, such as using solar energy to heat water and treatment of gray water. The center is envisioned to serve as a venture for retreat in a healthy environment.

For more information, please contact Ms. Rania Faouri rania.faouri@iucn.org