The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) is pleased to announce the closing event of the EU-funded SwitchMed MED TEST III project in Lebanon, showcasing remarkable achievements in promoting resource-efficient practices within Lebanese industries. The event will take place on March 6, 2024, from 9:30 to 12:30 at the Movenpick Hotel Beirut.
Since its inception in 2019, the MED TEST III project has been dedicated to addressing resource challenges and advocating for a circular economy perspective tailored to the needs of Lebanese industries. Implemented under the leadership of UNIDO, in partnership with the Ministry of Industry (MoI) and the Ministry of Environment (MoE), and in collaboration with the Association of the Lebanese Industrialists (ALI) and the Association of Northern Metn Industrialists (ANMI), the project has yielded impressive results through pilot projects aimed at fostering the adoption of resource-efficient production practices.
The project has targeted key sectors vital
to Lebanon’s economy, including food and beverage, chemical, plastic, and printing. Through industry demonstrations, the project identified and implemented various resource efficiency measures, spanning from water and energy savings to material efficiency. These initiatives have not only significantly reduced environmental impact but have also generated substantial economic benefits, with an estimated pound 3.4 million in annual production cost savings.
In addition to its broader impact, the MED TEST III project has spearheaded innovative solutions within the dairy sector through a whey valorization initiative. This collaborative effort with industry partners and academia has led to the development of three new whey-based products, offering cost-effective alternatives for Lebanese dairy companies. These initiatives not only enhance sustainability within the industry but also stimulate market innovation and competitiveness.
Source: National News Agency – Lebanon