Analysis of Jordanian environmental laws and institutions

To this end, a review of existing laws and studies was conducted and numerous interviews were held with Jordanian environmental officials to understand current regulatory practices. In addition, a new draft environmental law was analyzed. Major findings are as follows. (1) Institutional responsibilities for environmental protection are spread over numerous agencies. Duplication, poor coordination, and gaps in administration occur. (2) Programs in water pollution and water supply are better developed than other areas, such as air pollution or solid waste management. (3) Resource management programs, such as forestry, mining, and water supply, appear to have better funding and clearer statutory mandates than pollution control programs. (4) Many agencies with environmental responsibilities lack firm statutory directives, but have accomplished a good deal on an ad hoc basis. (5) The draft legislation provides a solid base for an expanded environmental law. Several substantive suggestions are made for improving the legislation. (Author abstract, modified)