Jordan launches its first-of-its-kind Circularity Hub (C-Hub) for Spent EV Batteries at German Jordanian University (GJU)
Amman, Jordan— On Tuesday, November 5th, under the patronage of His Excellency Dr. Muawieh Radaideh, the Minister of Environment, the German Jordanian University (GJU), in cooperation with the EDAMA Association, proudly announced the launch of the Circularity Hub (C-Hub) for Spent EV Batteries during an official MoU signing ceremony.
The C-Hub envisions Jordan as a leading player in the sustainable end-of-life management of EV batteries and thus focuses on fostering a robust ecosystem for the sustainable management and circularity of electric vehicle (EV) batteries in Jordan through applied research and collaboration among stakeholders. This project is being assisted by the German Government via the “Green Action in Enterprises” (GAIN) project which is being implemented by the German Agency for International Cooperation GIZ.
The launch with more than 80 high-level representatives from the public and private sector present is “a significant milestone in Jordan’s green transition”, said Eng. Belal Shaqarin, Director of Climate Change and Green Economy, delivered a keynote address on behalf of His Excellency Dr. Muawieh Radaideh.
His Excellency, President of German Jordanian University (GJU) Prof. Ala’aldeen Al-Halhouli, said that the university serves as an ideal entity for bringing together various parties and fostering mutual cooperation and collaboration. It plays a vital role in developing technical skills and building essential capacities for sustainability. Additionally, the university contributes to translating research, development, and innovation from the academic realm to practical applications, ultimately benefiting society.
Mr. Simon Floeht, speaking on behalf of GIZ Jordan and the GIZ-implemented GAIN project in his role as Commission Manager, is convinced that the Hub “can play a substantial role in encouraging private sector investment and supporting the Government of Jordan in steering impactful policies to unlock these immense potentials.”
In turn, Dr. Duraid Mahasneh, Chairman of the EDAMA Association and a member of the Board of Trustees of the German Jordanian University (GJU) welcomed the attendees and emphasized that the launch of the Circularity Hub (C-Hub) is a pivotal step toward empowering Jordan to lead the shift toward a sustainable circular economy. He highlighted the urgent need for such initiatives in Jordan, affirming that this step reflects Jordan’s commitment to innovation and collaboration between the public and private sectors to achieve sustainable development.
Dr. Fadwa Dababneh, the Director of the Circularity Hub (C-Hub), provided an overview of the Hub’s objectives, vision, and its critical role in advancing local and regional ecosystems. She highlighted how the Hub aims to serve as a catalyst for sustainable practices, focusing on research, innovation, and partnerships to drive circular economy initiatives in Jordan and the surrounding region.
In the panel discussion, Dr. Fadwa Dababneh, Director of the Circularity Hub (C-Hub), opened the topic ” Global Insights, Local Actions: Transforming Battery Challenges into Economic Opportunities.” The session included participation from Mr. Samer Joudeh, Mr. Hanna Zhgloul, and Dr. Ali Al Zyoud. The participants discussed several vital topics, such as the global market value for battery repurposing, ways to integrate batteries into energy systems, and the economic feasibility of establishing a circular economy for batteries. Additionally, they addressed recent technological innovations and the challenges facing cross-sector collaboration to achieve sustainability.
The German Jordanian University (GJU) signed Memorandums of Understandings with EDAMA as a founding member and with Etihad Bank as the hub’s first sponsor. These partnerships are designed to enhance collaboration and drive Jordan’s circular economy forward.
The C-Hub will be stationed at the German Jordanian University (GJU) and aims to establish comprehensive partnerships with the private sector and support the government through evidence-based policy advisory.
