IUCN concludes TA’ZIZ project advancing biodiversity conservation and climate resilience in Jordan

Funded by Global Affairs Canada (GAC) through the Embassy of Canada in Jordan, the project brought together national authorities, local communities and conservation partners to advance biodiversity conservation and climate resilience through ecosystem restoration, improved management of important biodiversity areas, Nature-based Solutions and community engagement.

“TAZIZ project is a strong example of IUCN ROWA’s work to address regional challenges on the ground through ecosystem restoration, biodiversity conservation, and strengthening the resilience of local communities to climate change. We hope to build on this experience and see more initiatives like TAZIZ across the region.” said Dr Hany El Shaer, Regional Director for IUCN West Asia.

The project placed particular emphasis on ecosystem restoration and the conservation of native plant diversity. Activities included the rehabilitation of ecosystems and juniper restoration sites, support to native plant nurseries, and the application of Nature-based Solutions to strengthen the ability of landscapes and communities to respond to the impacts of climate change.

Women and young people were central to the project's community-based approach, including through their participation in restoration activities and community nurseries. These efforts aimed to strengthen local capacities while creating greater opportunities for communities to participate directly in conserving and sustainably managing their natural resources.

“Looking back at what TAZIZ project has achieved over the past years, we are proud of its contribution to ecosystem restoration and biodiversity conservation. Most importantly, the project has laid a strong foundation for continued and sustainable action beyond its implementation.” said Caitlyn Hyndman, First Secretary (Development) at the Embassy of Canada to Jordan.

The project's closing event in Petra brought together representatives of the Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Environment, Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA), Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority, the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature, local associations, conservation practitioners and international experts.

Discussions during the event examined how effectively managed protected areas and international conservation standards can contribute to climate resilience, as well as approaches to restoring forests and woodlands through ecological restoration, native plant nurseries and Nature-based Solutions.

“TAZIZ project has shown the impact of working together to restore our forests, protect biodiversity and strengthen the resilience of our natural ecosystems, laying the foundation for sustainable action in the future,” said Eng. Khaled Al-Qudah, Assistant Secretary-General for Forests and Rangelands, Ministry of Agriculture, Jordan.

The event also highlighted lessons from the project's work with women and youth, presented by Ola Dababneh, Gender and Inclusion Officer at IUCN West Asia, and recognised the contribution of field teams to the project's implementation.

Eng. Ahmad Al-Duhayat, Head of the Shoubak Forestry Section and Manager of the Shoubak Forest Nursery, and Eng. Jaafar Al-Hilalat of the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority were recognised for their contributions to field implementation.

The closing programme also included visits to restoration sites and nurseries supported through the project, including juniper restoration areas and the Asilah nursery in Al-Bayda, restoration sites in Al-Hazim, and the Shoubak Forest Nursery.

“Over the past years, all partners have worked together with a strong sense of national responsibility and commitment, turning this shared effort into tangible results. TAZIZ has shown what can be achieved when partners work together to protect Petra’s natural heritage and build resilience for the future,” said Dr. Fatima Al-Hilalat, Commissioner for Sustainable Development, Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA).

The conclusion of TA’ZIZ marks the completion of the project's implementation period, while the partnerships, capacities and restoration approaches developed through the initiative provide a foundation for continued biodiversity conservation and climate resilience efforts in Petra and Shoubak.

About IUCN

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is a membership Union uniquely composed of both government and civil society organisations. It provides public, private and non-governmental organisations with the knowledge and tools needed to ensure that human progress, economic development and nature conservation advance together.

Founded in 1948, IUCN has grown into the world's largest and most diverse environmental network, bringing together more than 1,500 Member organisations and over 19,000 experts. Its work is supported by thousands of staff and volunteers through its Commissions, working in more than 50 countries around the world.

About IUCN Regional Office for West Asia

The IUCN Regional Office for West Asia (ROWA), based in Amman, Jordan, supports IUCN Members and partners across West Asia by strengthening environmental governance, improving the effective management of protected and conserved areas, promoting Nature-based Solutions, and advancing inclusive, science-based approaches to biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

The Regional Office works closely with governments, regional institutions, international organisations, the private sector and local communities to address the region's environmental challenges and implement initiatives that strengthen climate resilience, conserve natural resources and support sustainable development.

About the TA’ZIZ Project

The “Enhancing the Resilience of Important Biodiversity Areas in Jordan to Climate Change” (TA’ZIZ) project was implemented by IUCN West Asia with funding from Global Affairs Canada through the Embassy of Canada in Jordan.

Working with national and local partners in Petra and Shoubak, the project supported biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration and climate resilience while strengthening community participation, including the engagement of women and young people in restoration and conservation activities.

About Global Affairs Canada

Global Affairs Canada (GAC) is the Government of Canada department responsible for advancing Canada's international relations. Its work includes developing and implementing foreign policy, promoting international trade, providing consular services, and delivering international development, humanitarian, peace and security assistance.

Global Affairs Canada works with international partners toward a more peaceful, prosperous and sustainable world and supports initiatives that advance sustainable development and address global challenges.

About the Ministry of Agriculture of Jordan

The Ministry of Agriculture of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is the national government institution responsible for the agricultural sector and plays a key role in supporting the sustainable management of agricultural, forestry and rangeland resources.

Through its relevant directorates and programmes, the Ministry works with national and international partners on issues related to sustainable agriculture, forest and rangeland management, natural resource conservation and the resilience of rural and agricultural communities.

About the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority

The Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA) is an independent financial and administrative authority established in 2009 to manage and support the development of the Petra Region.

PDTRA works to advance the region's economic, social, cultural and tourism development while contributing to the development of local communities. Its responsibilities include managing and developing tourism, supporting investment, protecting the region's environment and natural resources, including biodiversity and water resources, and contributing to the protection, maintenance and restoration of Petra's archaeological heritage.