An Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Environment Policy in Jordan

Abstract

This study examines the impact of environmental policy in Jordan. The article evaluates the implementation process and reviews the policy measures, instruments and their effectiveness in banning, removing and/or reducing negative externalities in Jordan. Data was provided through analysis of responses to questionnaires distributed to all key enforcement officials working in the Ministries of Environment, Agriculture and Health. Additional sources were laws, regulations, official documents and reports issued by the government. The study shows that Jordan’s environmental policy relies solely on the command and control approach to mitigate negative externalities, while completely overlooking price-based and rights-based instruments. Such instruments are widely and increasingly employed in developed countries and have proved their efficiency and effectiveness in protecting the environment. The results of the study reveal that command and control measures are insufficient to achieve effective environmental policy. Consequently, they are incapable of internalizing negative externalities in Jordan. The three ministries were ineffective in both monitoring and enforcement, which are essential for the success of environment policy. Results may motivate government regulators to endorse price-based and rights-based measures, in addition to command and control measures.