Climate Commitment and Environmental Sustainability Policy
Janat Al-Frdaws Foundation for Relief and Development (JF)
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Introduction
Janat Al-Frdaws Foundation for Relief and Development (JF) recognizes the increasing environmental and climate challenges affecting communities in Iraq. As part of its humanitarian and development responsibility, the organization is committed to integrating climate action and environmental sustainability principles across all its programs and operational activities.
This commitment particularly applies to JF’s work in livelihood support, youth empowerment, support for unemployed youth, and assistance to orphans and vulnerable groups, as well as the organization’s operational practices in its offices in Samarra and Baiji.
To ensure measurable and accountable climate action, JF adopts the SMART approach (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) when implementing and monitoring environmental commitments.
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The Seven Climate Commitments of JF
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Commitment 1: Strengthening Response to Climate Risks
JF is committed to addressing climate-related risks affecting vulnerable communities by integrating environmental considerations into program design.
This commitment includes:
* Integrating climate risk assessments into livelihood and community development projects.
* Prioritizing support for vulnerable groups affected by environmental conditions, including extreme heat, water scarcity, and fragile infrastructure.
* Supporting climate-resilient small businesses that are less vulnerable to environmental disruptions.
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Commitment 2: Reducing Energy Consumption and Promoting Renewable Energy
JF is committed to reducing reliance on conventional energy sources and promoting renewable energy solutions.
The organization has installed a solar energy system in its offices, which currently provides approximately 90% of the office electricity needs, significantly reducing dependence on fuel-powered generators.
This is achieved through:
* Using solar energy as the primary electricity source in the office.
* Reducing the use of fuel generators and operating them only when necessary.
* Promoting the use of energy-efficient equipment and devices in daily operations.
* Monitoring office energy consumption as part of environmental performance tracking.
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Commitment 3: Maximizing Environmental Sustainability and Reducing Waste
JF promotes environmentally responsible practices within its offices and operational activities.
These practices include:
* Eliminating single-use plastic and disposable catering materials by 100% during office activities and meetings.
* Replacing plastic utensils with reusable glass or metal alternatives.
* Reducing paper consumption by adopting electronic documentation and digital archiving systems.
* Installing a water dispenser in the office to significantly reduce the purchase of plastic bottled water.
* Encouraging staff to use reusable cups and containers instead of disposable plastic bottles.
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Commitment 4: Supporting Community Leadership in Environmental Action
JF actively encourages community members, particularly youth and beneficiaries, to participate in environmental initiatives and community-based sustainability activities.
This commitment includes:
* Encouraging beneficiaries to propose and participate in community-led environmental initiatives.
* Raising environmental awareness among community members regarding the protection of natural resources.
* Supporting community-driven initiatives that promote environmental responsibility and sustainability.
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Commitment 5: Promoting Evidence-Based Environmental Solutions
JF works to strengthen understanding of environmental challenges and develop solutions based on evidence and field data.
The organization commits to:
* Conducting periodic environmental risk assessments in areas of operation.
* Collecting data on climate impacts on livelihoods and community resilience.
* Using assessment findings to design more sustainable and effective interventions.
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Commitment 6: Mobilizing Climate Action and Environmental Initiatives
JF actively promotes environmental initiatives and climate awareness within the communities it serves.
For example:
* In 2024, JF implemented tree-planting campaigns with the participation of beneficiaries in Al-Siniya Subdistrict and Al-Bajwari Village, achieving approximately 70% success in improving green spaces and environmental awareness.
* The organization also contributed to an environmental improvement initiative in Baiji District, where a location previously used as a waste dumping site was rehabilitated and transformed into a public park for children and families, achieving 100% transformation of the site into a clean recreational area.
* JF is planning to implement an additional tree-planting campaign in Baiji District in 2026, aiming to expand green spaces and strengthen community environmental awareness.
* Environmental awareness concepts are also integrated into training programs and capacity-building activities implemented by the organization.
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Commitment 7: Measuring Environmental Progress and Accountability
JF ensures accountability in its climate commitments by monitoring environmental performance through measurable indicators integrated into its Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) systems.
Key indicators include:
* Reduction in generator use due to solar energy installation, with solar energy covering approximately 90% of office electricity needs.
* The number of environmental initiatives implemented annually, including tree-planting campaigns and environmental rehabilitation projects.
* The number of beneficiaries participating in environmental and community environmental activities.
* The reduction in paper consumption and single-use plastic materials in office operations.
These indicators enable the organization to track environmental progress and continuously improve sustainability practices.
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Scope of Application
This policy applies to:
* All staff members of Jannat Al-Firdous Organization for Relief and Development (JF).
* All programs and projects implemented by the organization.
* JF offices in Samarra and Baiji.
* Partners, suppliers, and stakeholders when applicable.
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Conclusion
JF reaffirms its commitment to contributing to a more climate-resilient and environmentally responsible society. Through integrating environmental sustainability into its operations and programs, the organization aims to support communities in adapting to climate challenges while promoting responsible environmental practices in line with sustainable development goals and humanitarian standards.
