The first training of the SIRCLES project has been completed in the period 20-24 May 2022, a project that aims to produce organic fertilizers through recycling of organic waste from hotels in the city of Aqaba.

38 participants (25 of whom were females, 13 males) were trained on the legal, economic, and technical aspects of waste management, the circular economy and biological treatment of organic waste. A practical implementation of the production of compost was also included.

“The training course opened new horizons for me,” commented Mohammad Awartani, who was glad to learn about the difference in concepts of the linear and circular economies. Another female participant, Asma’ Fayoumi, an environmental engineer, noted that the training had developed her knowledge about organic waste and recycling.

People who are Not in Employment, Education, and Training (NEETs), are the targeted group for the training. Out of the 38, 14 participants do not hold higher education degrees (37%), while the rest held bachelor’s and technical training degrees. Only 2 participants in the training were employed (5%). Over 90% of the attendees expressed great satisfaction with both the training experience and outcomes.

The SIRCLES project is being implemented in Jordan by EDAMA, an energy, water, and environment business association, funded by a European Union grant of 3.8 million euros for a period of 30 months. It is also being implemented by other partners in Mediterranean countries including Italy, Spain, Greece, Tunisia, and Palestine.