Environment Ministry and Customs Department Introduce CO2-Based Cooling Project at Amman Customs Center

Amman: The Ministry of Environment and the Jordan Customs Department have jointly launched a groundbreaking project to operate cold storage rooms using carbon dioxide gas at the Amman Customs Center (Al-Madouneh). This initiative is in collaboration with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), which is executing the Scaling Up Sustainable Cooling in the Middle East (Cool Up) project.

According to Jordan News Agency, Omar Arabiyat, the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Environment, expressed that the project signifies the Ministry’s dedication to adopting advanced technologies that bolster environmental conservation and encourage sustainable development. He highlighted that the Scaling Up Sustainable Cooling in the Middle East project will enhance Jordan’s cooling systems and serve as a regional exemplar for implementing efficient and sustainable environmental practices.

Rafat Assi, Vice President of the Royal Scientific Society, remarked that the introduction of carbon dioxide-based cold storage rooms marks a significant advancement toward sustainable cooling in Jordan. He emphasized that the project, fully executed by Jordanian professionals, illustrates the practicality of utilizing highly efficient natural cooling technologies. Assi also urged for the continued execution of the National Cooling and Air Conditioning Plan and the strengthening of partnerships to support climate and environmental initiatives.

Majida Assaf, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP, stated that the new cold storage room project embodies the program’s backing of Jordan in adopting innovative climate change solutions. She pointed out that the success of these models underscores the readiness of sustainable cooling technologies for broader application and their role in furthering climate and development objectives.

The launch event included an informative video about the Sustainable Cooling Expansion Project in the Middle East and a brief presentation detailing the project, its background, and its potential for future scaling and replication. Attendees also participated in a field visit, where they were informed about the project, showcasing its ability to tackle existing challenges and acting as a practical demonstration of technological solutions in a real-world operational setting.