Conference Paper 6: TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE GREEN TRANSITION IN LEBANON AND SYRIA Identifying Policy Gaps and Spotting Opportunities to Design Sustainable Policies

FEMConfPaper6-2024 | September 2024

Title

« Conference Paper 6: TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE GREEN TRANSITION IN LEBANON AND SYRIA Identifying Policy Gaps and Spotting Opportunities to Design Sustainable Policies »

By

Mohammad Makki, Ph.D Candidate in Sustainable Development and Policy, University Saint Joseph, Lebanon; Jeanne Mawad, Head of the Management and Entrepreneurship Programme, Université du Saint-Esprit de Kaslik Business School, Lebanon; and Neli Lalkovska, Ph.D Candidate at Higher School of Transport, Sofia, Bulgaria

Contributeurs

Note :

This paper was submitted and accepted for presentation at the FEMISE 2023 Annual Conference, “Shifting Paradigms: Opportunities for a Deeper EU-Mediterranean Integration in a Changing World,” Barcelona, Spain, 27-29 September 2023 under the theme: A better integrated Euro-Mediterranean region. The paper was evaluated and peer reviewed by experts, whose contributions are greatly appreciated. The revised version was accepted for publication under the FEMISE Conference Paper series. The opinions and content of this document are the sole responsibility of the authors and can under no circumstances be regarded as reflecting the position of the FEMISE, the IEMed or the AECID.

Summary :

Abstract

This policy paper casts a spotlight on the struggling ecosystems that stymie entrepreneurial efforts within the green transition sector, with a keen focus on Southern Mediterranean nations like Lebanon and Syria. It unearths critical policy gaps and highlights the multifaceted challenges impeding progress—ranging from inadequate government intervention and outdated regulatory frameworks to insufficient infrastructure, weak support systems due to internal conflicts caused by the political conflict and war in Syria, and a lack of sustainable financing and public awareness. Recognizing entrepreneurship as a pivotal force for driving change, the study emphasizes the need for long-term investment and expert guidance to fuel transformation. Based on information gathered through key informant interviews and Focus groups with experts in the field of green energy, the policy paper advocates for strategic engagement with donors, international NGOs, academic institutions, innovation hubs, and financial entities, proposing a blend of sustainable funding mechanisms and collaborative efforts. It also underscores the crucial role of universities and innovation centers in fostering awareness, developing relevant curricula, and shaping regulatory frameworks to bolster entrepreneurial ecosystems.

The abstract is also available in French and Arabic