Every action counts – this is their motto when they move to more sustainable behavior.
United in sustainability, UNHCR in Jordan eco-warriors share a commitment to a greener future. © UNHCR/Batool Ghaith
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, in Jordan is dedicated to climate action and reducing its environmental footprint. This goes for the agency and for its staff.
The UNHCR operation already opted for energy-efficient technologies and resource conservation many years ago when building the world’s first and the world’s largest solar plants in refugee camps, in Azraq and Zaatari respectively. They have brought down the carbon footprint for electricity considerably. In addition, the Office in Amman has reduced its power consumption for air condition (AC) by 35 percent with AC inverters and by rolling out LED bulbs for lighting. UNHCR in Jordan has cut down its fuel consumption as its fleet counts already with nine electric vehicles. The Agency’s main Office in Jordan has also reduced its water use by 41 percent thanks to sensory taps as part of the UN-wide greening the blue initiative.
Not only the Agency as a whole, but also its staff members are committed to climate action and eco-friendly practices in their daily lives.
Jamil’s home runs on the sun, harnessing solar power on the rooftop of his house. © Jamil Koussous
The Solar Advocate
Jamil Koussous, Supply Associate, he wanted to make sure he brings down his own carbon footprint at home, and installed photovoltaic panels in his house.
“Switching to solar energy is not just about saving on electricity bills, it is also about investing in a cleaner, greener world. Climate action is a responsibility of all of us, everywhere, all the time,” Jamil says.
Allma ensures every plastic bottle at UNHCR Jordan office finds a new life, one eco-friendly deposit at a time. © UNHCR/Batool Ghaith
The Plastic Chaser
Allma Beqiri, Building Services Officer, collects any plastic bottles she finds in the office to make sure they are recycled. She uses a tote bag instead of plastic bags all the time and brings her glass cup to avoid waste.
“I aim to inspire others to care for our only earth by being more aware of waste management and preserving our environment. Earth is the only place we have, we need to keep it green,” Allma says.
Hala stands as a gentle protector of the earth’s wooded treasures. © UNHCR/Batool Ghaith
The Tree Saver
Hala Alkloub, Data Management Assistant, saves trees by reducing printing paper, and when necessary, she prints on both sides. She also makes sure to avoid using plastic and disposable cutlery by bringing her own from home.
“I genuinely believe that the smallest efforts make a difference. If we all make conscious decisions about our practices, we create a collective positive impact,” Hala says.
Refill, reuse, rejoice, Sana’s toast to sustainability in her metallic water bottle. © UNHCR/Batool Ghaith
The Waste Watcher
Sana Hamdan, External Relations Associate, switched to metallic water bottles instead of plastic bottles to reduce plastic waste. She also participates in initiatives to clean the streets of Amman regularly.
“We need to be more sustainable in our choices if we care about our planet. This is our home, and we need to keep it clean with as little waste as possible.” Sana says.
Shady drives change in his electric vehicle towards a zero emissions journey. © UNHCR/Batool Ghaith
The E-Driver
Shady Elian, UNHCR Driver, does not need fuel to move around in his car after he switched to an e-vehicle car two years ago, demonstrating his dedication to sustainable transportation.
“I used a hybrid car previously for 15 years, until I purchased this fully electric car, which is more efficient. I am glad to play a part in reducing pollution and protecting the environment”, Shady says.
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