Certificate Award Ceremony: Strengthening Industrial Resource Efficiency for a Sustainable and Competitive Future
The European Union, in collaboration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), announced the successful completion of its training program under the EU-funded 2Circular Project, a €3.7 million initiative supporting Lebanon's transition to a green and circular economy. The project, implemented in partnership with Lebanon's Ministry of Industry, Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Economy and Trade, and Ministry of Finance, also collaborates with the Association of Lebanese Industrialists and the Federation of the Chambers of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture in Lebanon. It aims to enhance resource efficiency and promote circular business models in Lebanon's private sector, particularly in the food and beverage industry.
To mark this achievement, the European Union, together with UNIDO, hosted a Certificate Award Ceremony on February 20, 2025, at the American University of Beirut (AUB), Charles Hostler Auditorium, from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM. The event celebrated 27 service providers who have successfully completed an intensive training program on the Transfer of Environmentally Sound Technologies (TEST) methodology. This comprehensive approach helps businesses identify and implement cost-saving, resource-efficient measures that enhance operational efficiency and sustainability.
About the 2Circular Project
The 2Circular Project is a key pillar of the Lebanon Reform, Recovery, and Reconstruction Framework (3RF), building on the success of the EU-funded SwitchMed program and UNIDO's TEST methodology.
The project focuses on:
• Upscaling resource efficiency in 30-40 food and beverage companies through TEST-based solutions.• Developing circular business models to drive innovation and sustainability.• Facilitating access to finance for SMEs to adopt sustainable practices.
• Supporting Lebanon's industrial green transition in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry.
Training a cohort of TEST service providers
The TEST methodology helps businesses integrate environmentally sound technologies to prevent pollution, optimize resource use, and reduce operational costs. Through the six-month EU-funded training program led by international and national UNIDO TEST trainers, in partnership with AUB as the technical execution partner and in collaboration with the Lebanese University, 27 service providers gained hands-on experience in 14 beneficiary companies. Their work resulted in the identification of 89 resource efficiency measures with substantial savings potential:
• 84,729 m³ of water saved annually• 9,111 MWh of primary energy conserved per year• 1,502 tonnes of materials optimized annually• 3,687 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent emissions reduced per year• €1.655 million in annual production cost savings
• €2.73 million in leveraged investments with an average payback period of just 1.7 years
Voices of Collaboration
Dr. Antoine Ghauch, Project Coordinator, AUB:
'AUB played a pivotal role as the technical execution partner of UNIDO in the EU funded 2Circular project, orchestrating a vital capacity building program for 27 engineers in resource efficiency and cleaner production. We strongly believe that this initiative should be upscaled by the development of an online module for the industrial community, offering continuous education aimed at improving resource efficiency and cleaner production in their processes, enabling industrial companies to enhance both their operational performance and environmental stewardship.'
Dr. Ali Ismail, Lebanese University:
'As a key partner in the EU-funded 2Circular project implemented by UNIDO, the Lebanese University contributed resource efficiency and cleaner production advisors, graduates participating as trainees, and hosted practical training on food systems and resource efficiency and cleaner production in the food industry for 27 engineers. Its involvement reflects its dedication to promoting and integrating resource efficiency and cleaner production education within the Lebanese University for a more sustainable industrial sector."
Dr. Nada Sabra, Liaison and Resource Efficiency Expert of the 2Circular project:
'By delivering a comprehensive theoretical and on-the-job training to engineers on industrial resource efficiency in partnership with academia, UNIDO, through the EU funded 2Circular project, is playing a pivotal role in sustainably fostering the national service provision market in the field of industrial resource efficiency and cleaner production, for a more resilient, competitive and environmentally responsible industry.'
Eng. Chantal Akl, Acting Director-General, Ministry of Industry:
'Building the capacities of service providers in industrial resource efficiency is at the heart of the priorities of the Ministry of Industry, and a pivotal achievement of the 2Circular project that needs to be sustained as it fosters the development of the national market of service providers in industrial resource efficiency for a sustainable industrial development and an enhanced competitiveness and resilience of the Lebanese industrial sector.'
Mr. Talal Hijazi, Representative, Association of Lebanese Industrialists (ALI):
'We appreciate the EU and UNIDO's continued support in advancing industrial resource efficiency and cleaner production practices. These efforts are essential for Lebanon's industrial growth and green transition.'
Mr. Elie Massoud, Federation of the Chambers of Commerce, Industry & Agriculture:
"This achievement is not just a certification—it is a commitment to sustainability, efficiency, and innovation in our industries. The dedication of the trained service providers is a testament to the fact that sustainability is not just an option—it is the way forward."
Ms. Zeina Harakeh, Ministry of Economy & Trade:
"The Ministry of Economy and Trade recognizes industrial resource efficiency as both an economic necessity and an environmental priority. Through the 2Circular project, we are equipping Lebanese industries with the tools to enhance productivity while minimizing environmental impact. The newly certified service providers will play a crucial role in advancing sustainable production practices, strengthening Lebanon's competitiveness in global markets, and driving the transition towards a circular economy."
EU Delegation to Lebanon
Ms. Lea Polony, Program Manager, Economic Affairs and Private Sector, European Commission:
'Through the 2Circular project, the EU is helping businesses in Lebanon's food and beverage sector cut waste, save resources, and work more sustainably. We've trained 27 experts to support companies in reducing their environmental footprint and adopting greener practices. This is part of the EU's broader commitment to building green skills and supporting Lebanon's shift to a more sustainable, circular economy.'
Building a Sustainable Future
Beyond resource efficiency in the food and beverage sector, the 2Circular Project is expanding Lebanon's expertise in sustainable production services. The 27 newly certified SPs, including seven women, are now well-equipped to support Lebanese industries in adopting resource-efficient and cleaner production methods, fostering a thriving national market for sustainability-focused services.
Looking Ahead
The success of the 2Circular Project highlights the transformative impact of resource efficiency on economic and environmental resilience. As Lebanon continues its recovery, adopting circular business models and sustainability-driven industrial practices will be essential for long-term growth. UNIDO, in collaboration with key stakeholders, remains committed to advancing Lebanon's green transition and fostering a competitive, resource-efficient industrial sector.
The Certificate Award Ceremony marks a milestone in this journey, celebrating the achievements of service providers and reaffirming Lebanon's commitment to sustainable industrial development.
UNIDO encourages Lebanese industries, policymakers, and development partners to build on this milestone by engaging with the newly trained service providers and sustaining their continued development. In the coming months, UNIDO will work with 16 additional food and beverage companies seeking to enhance resource efficiency. These companies will have the opportunity to collaborate with selected service providers under UNIDO's guidance, ensuring quality implementation and continuous learning.
About UNIDO:
The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) is a specialized UN agency dedicated to industrial development for poverty reduction, inclusive globalization, and environmental sustainability. UNIDO promotes and accelerates sustainable industrial growth in developing economies.
About the European Union:
The European Union (EU) is a political and economic union of 27 member states, committed to sustainable development and environmental protection through global funding initiatives.
© 2000 - 2025 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Al Bawaba
a day ago
- Al Bawaba
Audit and Accountability in Focus at AUB Panel on the Chehab Era and the Path Forward
The American University of Beirut (AUB) hosted a timely and thought-provoking panel discussion titled Audit and Accountability – The Chehab Era and the Path Forward, organized by the Fouad Chehab Foundation (FCF), and the AUB Good Governance and Citizenship Observatory (GGCO) housed at the Asfari Institute for Civil Society and Citizenship. Held on AUB's campus, the event brought together leading legal and governance experts to examine the institutions established under former President Fouad Chehab—bodies tasked with supervising public administration and enforcing accountability—and to explore their relevance to Lebanon's current challenges in governance and state event was moderated by Attorney of Law Amine Bachir and featured three distinguished panelists: Judge Georges Attieh, president of the Central Inspection Board; Court of Accounts Judge Elie Maalouf, professor at La Sagesse University; and Judge Rana Akoum, head of the Enforcement Court in Simon Kachar, founding and current director of GGCO, welcomed the panelists and attendees, and spoke about the timeliness of the panel and the growing momentum in Lebanon for governance and institutional reform. He noted that the collaboration with the Fouad Chehab Foundation reflects a shared commitment to linking the lessons of the past with the reform efforts of his recorded video message opening the event, AUB President Dr. Fadlo R. Khuri praised Chehab as 'one of the most important presidents Lebanon has known,' highlighting his commitment to the development of robust state institutions. 'We see today not only an opportunity to study the accomplishments, merits, and difficulties of the Chehab era,' Khuri stated, 'but also to apply what we learn from these studies to Lebanon's current reality.' He added that we must work toward building 'a state of institutions at a time when the Lebanese state is expressing its will and determination to reassert its authority across the country.'Khuri noted that the Chehab era was defined by the application of law and respect for institutions, a principle Lebanon has struggled to uphold since the onset of civil war, stating that enforcing the law and upholding institutional will are capabilities essential for restoring confidence in governance and rebuilding a viable of the Fouad Chehab Foundation Adel Hamiyeh reflected on the enduring values behind the foundation's work. He noted that President Chehab built institutions that were not only administrative and financial, but also social, cultural, and developmental in nature. Hamiyeh said, 'We decided to organize a series of panel discussions on the Chehabist experience, addressing topics such as governance, and involving universities, with the aim of introducing the Chehabist message to the younger generation—especially during this period marked by the optimism that accompanied the election of President Joseph Aoun, his delivery of the oath of office, and the subsequent formation of a distinguished government known for its competence and its promising ministerial statement. This has given us hope that this new era may resemble that of President Fouad Chehab in terms of restoring the authority and institutions of the state and returning to a natural foreign policy."The discussion unfolded in three parts: lessons learned from the Chehab era, the current state of institutional paralysis, and potential paths forward. The panelists discussed the rationale behind President Chehab's establishment of key institutions such as the Central Inspection, the Audit Bureau, and the Disciplinary Council. These bodies were conceived as independent mechanisms to promote transparency, discipline, and ethical governance across public administration. The discussion highlighted how these institutions once played a pivotal role in instilling accountability, protecting public resources, and professionalizing the civil service. The discussion also revisited the structural foundations that allowed these institutions to function with autonomy during the Chehab era, and considered the leadership decisions that helped insulate them from political conversation then moved to the contemporary state of these institutions, as the panel examined the range of factors that have contributed to their current dysfunction—including political encroachment, legal ambiguities, and insufficient staffing and funding. The panelists acknowledged that many of these bodies now face significant operational challenges, preventing them from fulfilling their original mandates. Despite this, there was recognition that these institutions still hold potential if revitalized with the appropriate structural and legal ahead, panelists reflected on potential reform pathways. They explored ideas such as enacting legal safeguards to enhance institutional independence, leveraging digital tools to modernize audit and inspection functions, and fostering closer collaboration between oversight bodies, the judiciary, and civil society actors. The discussion emphasized the importance of reestablishing credibility through transparent practices and rebuilding public confidence in Lebanon's governance the discussion, panelists revisited the core principles of the Chehab era—discipline, transparency, and institutional accountability—as potential foundations for Lebanon's future reform efforts. While acknowledging the serious structural and political challenges that remain, the conversation underscored the importance of rebuilding credible and independent institutions capable of advancing good governance and restoring public trust. The session concluded with an engaging Q&A, during which attendees posed questions and shared reflections, enriching the conversation around the future of institutional reform in Lebanon.
Roya News
2 days ago
- Roya News
ECB cuts rate again facing growth, tariff woes
The European Central Bank's easing cycle reached the one-year mark Thursday when policymakers delivered another interest rate cut as concerns mount about the struggling eurozone economy and global trade tensions. The ECB cut its key deposit rate a quarter point to two percent, as widely expected, its seventh consecutive reduction and eighth since June last year when it began lowering borrowing costs. It also lowered its inflation forecast for 2025, with consumer price increases now expected to hit the central bank's two-percent target this year. With inflation under control following a post-pandemic surge, the ECB has shifted its focus to dialling back borrowing costs to boosting the beleaguered economies of the 20 countries that use the euro. US President Donald Trump's tariffs have added to an already uncertain outlook for the single-currency area, with Europe firmly in his crosshairs, fuelling fears about a heavy hit to the continent's exporters. Announcing the rate decision, the ECB struck a measured tone about the US levies and the potential for retaliation. It noted that the "uncertainty surrounding trade policies is expected to weigh on business investment and exports" but added that "rising government investment in defence and infrastructure will increasingly support growth over the medium term. "Higher real incomes and a robust labour market will allow households to spend more. Together with more favourable financing conditions, this should make the economy more resilient to global shocks." It left its growth forecast for 2025 unchanged at 0.9 percent. It also said inflation was now around target -- dropping previous language that it was "on track". Eurozone inflation came in at 1.9 percent in May. All eyes will now be on ECB President Christine Lagarde's post-meeting press conference for any hints that the Frankfurt-based institution might be gearing up to pause its cuts in July to take stock of developments, as some expect. The ECB's series of cuts stands in contrast to the US Federal Reserve, which has kept rates on hold recently amid fears that Trump's levies could stoke inflation in the world's top economy. Lagarde may also face questions on her own future after the Financial Times last week reported she had discussed leaving the ECB early to take the helm of the World Economic Forum, which organises the annual Davos gathering. The ECB has insisted that Lagarde is "determined" to finish her term, which ends in 2027. Tariff blitz Trump, who argues his tariffs will bring manufacturing jobs back to the United States, has already hit the EU with multiple waves of levies. The bloc currently faces a 10-percent "baseline" tariff as well as higher duties on specific sectors. He has paused even higher rates on the EU and other trading partners to allow for talks, but he continues to launch fresh salvos that are keeping the world on edge. This week he doubled tariffs on aluminium and steel from 25 to 50 percent and last month threatened the EU with an escalation if it did not negotiate a swift deal. For the ECB, it is a tricky task to protect the eurozone from the mercurial US president's trade policies while keeping inflation stable. Trump's tariffs are expected to exert downward pressure on eurozone inflation. This is due to factors including tariff-hit China redirecting inexpensive manufactured goods to Europe, recent strengthening of the euro and potentially lower energy prices. Lower inflation and slower growth should push the ECB to make further rate cuts. As a result, ING analyst Carsten Brzeski predicted Thursday's cut "will not be the last". "Not only did US President Donald Trump make the European economy great again -- for one quarter, as frontloading of exports and industrial production boosted economic activity -- he also made inflation almost disappear," he said. There are some factors that make this uncertain though.
Roya News
3 days ago
- Roya News
Vanuatu considers stripping Andrew Tate of golden passport
Vanuatu's government is reviewing the citizenship status of influencer Andrew Tate after revelations surfaced that he secured a 'golden passport' from the Pacific island nation just as he was being arrested in Romania on serious criminal charges. Tate, a controversial online figure known for his self-declared misogyny and luxurious lifestyle, was granted Vanuatu citizenship in December 2022 under a fast-track program for foreign investors. At the time, he and his brother Tristan were taken into custody in Romania on accusations of rape and human trafficking—allegations they continue to deny. The passport program, which allows individuals to acquire Vanuatu nationality by investing at least USD 130,000 in the country, has drawn scrutiny for its security vulnerabilities. In late 2024, the European Union revoked Vanuatu's visa-free travel privileges, citing concerns that the scheme could be exploited by individuals with criminal backgrounds. A Vanuatu government spokesperson confirmed the matter is under active review. 'Once we have the files, definitely, the processes will be in place to revoke his citizenship,' said Kiery Manassah, speaking to ABC News. 'The government does not want to encourage people of questionable backgrounds to be granted citizenship,' he added. 'Those who are wanted by their countries or who are investigated by police authorities from overseas are not welcome to be part of the citizens of Vanuatu.' An investigation by the Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) revealed the timing of Tate's citizenship application coincided with his arrest, raising concerns about how such programs are monitored. 'It's caused a lot of alarm because it's one of those loopholes that allows people to get a new passport or even a new identity and be able to evade law enforcement,' said Aubrey Belford, Pacific lead editor at OCCRP. Vanuatu, which does not have an extradition treaty with Romania, issued the passport to Tate in the same month he was detained in Europe. It remains unclear whether Tristan Tate also obtained citizenship through the same route. Beyond his legal issues, Andrew Tate has amassed millions of followers online by flaunting wealth and espousing toxic ideologies, particularly targeting women. His digital influence has alarmed educators and government bodies, including those in the UK, for encouraging misogynistic attitudes among boys and young men. Both brothers were born in the US and raised in the UK, where authorities are now pursuing their extradition on separate charges filed in 2024, including rape, human trafficking, and assault related to incidents from 2012 to 2015. Their legal team has said they will face the UK charges once the Romanian judicial process concludes. A Romanian court has ruled that extradition to the UK may proceed following any trial there.
