LocationsUNDP Syria: A Commitment to Stay, Deliver and Go Green
July 18, 2024
Solar panels installed on the rooftop of UNDP premises in Damascus
Amid Syria's enduring crises - from war to pandemic and even earthquakes - UNDP in Syria remained resolute in its commitment to recovery efforts towards improving the living conditions of the people in Syria.
Today, one of the most pressing challenges confronting the Syrian population is the severe shortage of electricity and fuel. This crisis has a profound impact on the daily lives of the people, with daily power outages averaging 17 to 20 hours across the country, according to the UN. This has compelled people to resort to fuel-powered generators and basic inverter/battery systems for their energy needs. However, the ongoing economic decline has exacerbated fuel shortages, further undermining access to reliable power supplies.
In addition to its projects focusing on supporting communities in Syria in the face of environmental degradation and climate change, UNDP Syria took serious steps to put into practice what it preaches. As part of UNDP’s Greening Moonshot, which commits the organization to reduce its operational carbon footprint, UNDP Syria follows a multilayer greening strategy centred around people, systems, reusables, and innovative green technology.
Starting with an extensive Energy Audit carried out in 2020 at UNDP premises in Damascus, a comprehensive analysis was conducted on various loads to identify opportunities to rationalize energy consumption. This involved collecting data and information on energy usage patterns, equipment efficiency, and potential areas for improvement. The audit aimed to determine the means and methods to achieve optimal energy use, ensuring transparency and accountability in our energy management practices.
Besher Kaderi, ICT Analyst and UNDP Syria’s Greening Moonshot committee member
The first phase involved implementing a solar-powered energy system to power lighting, laptops, security systems, and water heating. This has lessened the load on generators, saving 6,375 litres per year and reducing CO2 emissions by 16.83 tons annually.
In 2021, the second phase focused on reducing reliance on diesel fuel. Instead of using a 200-kilovolt generator that consumes 35 litres of diesel per hour, UNDP Syria switched to a 35-kilovolt generator that consumes only seven litres per hour. This approach kept the servers online 24/7 during weekends, holidays, and other periods of low consumption, lessened fuel consumption by 7,200 litres of diesel per year and reduced CO2 emissions by 19 tons.
Amid the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic, the work-from-home modality was a challenge for UNDP personnel in Syria in 2021. Beyond working in a crisis context, the need for continuous electricity and internet in many residential areas made it difficult for staff to work from home. To overcome these challenges, UNDP installed residential solar panels with a capacity of 125 kilowatts for over 140 personnel across nine governorates to enable them to install backup solar power systems in their homes, demonstrating our adaptability and resilience in the face of multifaceted crises.
"I was approached by many colleagues who expressed how great it was not to worry about their laptop battery running out in the middle of a meeting. It was life-changing for some not to worry about running out of water since they can now operate the water pumps. Even when working from the office, it made a lot of difference not having to come back home to a dark house," said Besher Kaderi, ICT Analyst and committee member. This initiative is reducing CO2 emissions by 100 tons annually, benefiting the wider community.
Abir Achi, Energy Analyst and Project Manager at UNDP Syria
In addition, in 2022, UNDP installed solar energy units for electricity and water heating at UNDP offices in Deir-ez-Zor in eastern Syria, saving 7,000 litres per year and reducing CO2 emissions by 18.48 tons annually.
UNDP’s green journey does not stop here. Upcoming plans include procuring two electric vehicles and replacing 12 air conditioners with energy-efficient ones. This is anticipated to reduce CO2 emissions by 16.5 tons per year.
Whether operating from the office or working from home due to unforeseen circumstances, UNDP Syria is unwavering in its commitment to adapt, stay, and deliver.
In the context of Syria, sustainable energy is not just a choice, it is a necessity. We at UNDP always look for ways to make the best of what little resources we have. We want to set an example by putting words into action," said Abir Achi, Energy Analyst and Project Manager, emphasizing the urgency and importance of sustainable energy in Syria.
UNDP Syria’s adaptability and resilience in the face of multifaceted crises, dedication to sustainable development, and efforts to reduce its environmental footprint are setting a model for other organizations operating in crisis conditions. By integrating green technology and sustainable practices, UNDP Syria is proving that positive change is possible even in the most challenging environments, inspiring hope for a greener future.
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