SOS Children’s Villages Jordan phases out fossil fuels, unveils decarbonization roadmap
IRBID — Under the patronage of Minister of Environment Ayman Suleiman, SOS Children’s Villages Jordan on Monday held an environmental event at Irbid Children’s Village to announce the results of its carbon footprint report and a decarbonization roadmap.
The event brought together representatives of government entities, international organisations, the private sector, and experts in energy, environment and sustainability.
During the event, the association announced a significant milestone: the complete phase-out of fossil fuels for heating across all its villages and facilities in the Kingdom, shifting instead to high-efficiency clean energy solutions in line with national carbon reduction goals.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts to support national action on climate change and advance the transition towards a low-emissions economy.
It also aims to provide accurate data and scientific analysis to support evidence-based decision-making, marking a strategic step in the association’s journey towards institutional decarbonization.
Mustafa Al Washah, chairman of SOS Children’s Villages Jordan, described the launch of the carbon footprint report and sustainability roadmap as “a pivotal moment in the association’s environmental work, where we move from achievement to systematic impact grounded in clear scientific foundations.”
He added that the association has taken a “bold” step by fully discontinuing the use of fossil fuels for heating and water heating at its villages in Amman, Irbid and Aqaba, replacing them with efficient clean energy solutions.
He noted that this shift reflects a “genuine” commitment to reducing carbon emissions and supporting national climate action efforts.
Al Washah also stressed that sustainability at SOS Children’s Villages goes beyond energy, encompassing integrated resource management practices such as rainwater harvesting, greywater reuse and the adoption of smart digital systems.
“This report is not merely a set of figures, but a new commitment to our children, our community and our country towards a safer and more sustainable future,” he said.
Mohammad Qudah, director of Environment and Public Safety, speaking on behalf of the CEO of Nebras PowerJordan, said that the company’s partnership with SOS Children’s Villages reflects its commitment to corporate social responsibility.
“We believe that real investment begins with supporting people and empowering local communities,” he said, adding that the partnership contributes to initiatives that protect children and youth, provide a more stable environment, and create better opportunities for the future, in line with the company’s vision of supporting sustainability and community development in Jordan.
Deputizing for the minister of environment, Jihad Sawair, the ministry’s advisor for technical and international affairs, underscored that the achievement constitutes a leading national model for transitioning to clean energy and reducing carbon emissions.
He praised the association’s efforts in adopting sustainable solutions and eliminating fossil fuel use across its sites.
He noted that the initiative aligns with national directions towards a green economy and strengthened climate action, stressing the importance of collaboration among institutions to promote sustainable environmental practices and build a more sustainable future for coming generations.
The event also featured a detailed presentation of the carbon footprint report, highlighting emission sources, levels and opportunities for reduction, alongside a practical roadmap for decarbonization in line with national and international sustainability frameworks.
Presentations were also delivered by Earth Watch, with Tamim Al Zou’bi outlining the technical report and roadmap, and by GTE General-Manager Maher Awad who presented technological solutions supporting the transition to sustainable energy.
The event further marked the launch of the second phase of the “Eco Champions” project, aimed at empowering youth and enhancing environmental awareness, in addition to honoring partners and supporters in recognition of their contributions to the success of these initiatives.
SOS Children’s Villages Jordan highlighted its commitment to continuing environmental initiatives and working with partners to achieve sustainable impact that contributes to environmental protection and a better future for coming generations.
