INVESTBANK wins dual honours for green space transformation and biodiversity conservation
The bank has created a dense, biodiverse forest whilst also playing a key role in protecting Jordan’s ecological heritage.
INVESTBANK’s accomplishments have been recognised by the prestigious ESGBusiness Awards 2024, as the company secured both the Green Spaces Award (Parks, Garden, Urban Forests) - Jordan and the Biodiversity Conservation Award - Jordan.
The bank won the Green Spaces Award (Parks, Garden, Urban Forests) - Jordan for its urban reforestation project in Amman and the Biodiversity Conservation Award - Jordan for its reforestation and conservation efforts at the Dana Reserve.
Green spaces
In the heart of Amman, a once barren and underutilised piece of land has been transformed by INVESTBANK into a vibrant, community-focussed green space. Through this project, the company has created a forest using the Miyawaki method — an innovative approach to reforestation that focusses on planting native species in high density to mimic natural forest conditions.
The park offers a variety of amenities to cater to the diverse needs of the community. A children’s play area and walking paths encourage physical activity and social interaction, whilst the forest itself provides a serene, contemplative space for relaxation and nature appreciation. The park has also become a hub for community events and gatherings, strengthening social bonds amongst residents.
By carefully selecting plant species that complement each other, the Miyawaki method accelerates forest growth and creates a self-sustaining ecosystem. The man-made forest is designed to provide a range of ecological benefits, including air purification, erosion control, and biodiversity enhancement.
The project has placed a strong emphasis on community involvement. Residents have been engaged in every stage of the process, from initial planning to planting and ongoing care. This participatory approach has fostered a deep sense of ownership and pride in the green space. Workshops and educational programmes to raise awareness of the importance of urban green spaces and the Miyawaki method have been organised by a local organisation.
INVESTBANK’s remarkable efforts in creating a thriving green space that is both environmentally beneficial and socially inclusive have set a precedent for sustainable urban development. It also serves as a testament to the power of community collaboration and the transformative impact green spaces can have on a neighbourhood.
“This project is more than just an aesthetic enhancement; it is a holistic endeavour aimed at improving the quality of life for residents whilst promoting environmental sustainability,” the bank said. All the partners, volunteers, and community members who have contributed to the success of this project have made this transformation possible with their dedication and hard work.
Save Dana: Protecting Jordan’s ecological heritage
Besides its urban reforestation work, INVESTBANK’s commitment to environmental sustainability extends to safeguarding Jordan’s biodiversity. This dedication was exemplified in the company’s Biodiversity Conservation Award - Jordan, won for its efforts at the Dana Reserve, one of Jordan’s most important ecological treasures.
The Dana Reserve has been facing critical threats to its ecosystem due to a combination of fungal infections, beetle infestations, and prolonged drought, which have resulted in the loss of 15,000 to 20,000 trees. In response, INVESTBANK, alongside local partners, launched a community-driven reforestation project to plant 20,000 native tree saplings, with a focus on endangered species.
A key element of this initiative is the Water Box — a sustainable container made from recycled cardboard, designed to retain water and gradually release it over six months. This addresses the region’s chronic water scarcity and ensures that newly planted saplings receive the necessary hydration to thrive. The Water Box is also biodegradable, enriching the soil as it decomposes. The reforestation project prioritises native tree species such as Oak, Terebinth, Carob, and Almond to not only restore the forest’s ecological integrity but also enhance its resilience against future environmental challenges.
As with the reforestation project in Amman, collaboration with the local community has likewise been central to the project’s success. By involving residents in every step, from planting to long-term care, the initiative fosters environmental stewardship and ensures the protection of the reforested areas. Community engagement also taps into valuable local knowledge, crucial for ensuring the project’s sustainability.
By combining innovative water conservation techniques, the cultivation of native species, and community collaboration, INVESTBANK’s initiative aims to restore Dana’s natural balance and protect it for future generations. This was done with the help of partners and the local community.
INVESTBANK’s wins in both the Green Spaces Award and the Biodiversity Conservation Award highlight the company’s far-reaching impact on Jordan’s environment. From transforming urban landscapes into thriving ecosystems to restoring a crucial nature reserve, the bank’s projects demonstrate a steadfast commitment to sustainable development.
The ESGBusiness Awards 2024 celebrate companies that lead the way in building a sustainable future by recognising those with outstanding achievements in environmental, social, and governance practices.
The ESGBusiness Awards is presented by ESGBusiness. To view the full list of winners, click here. If you want to join the 2025 awards programme and be acclaimed for your company's outstanding commitment and achievement in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices, please contact Julie Anne Nuñez at [email protected].
